How to Become a Psychologist in Utah
If you plan to learn and practice psychology in the “Beehive State,” there are a few things you should know. The industry outlook is considered below average when compared with other states, but according to the Utah Department of Workforce Services, "This occupation is expected to experience much faster than average employment growth with a high volume of annual job openings." If you gain the appropriate experience and education, you should have a fair chance of finding a job.
A psychologist works hard to help patients achieve the best possible mental health and increase their overall well-being. This often involves a lengthy and thorough process of assessment, testing, diagnosis, developing a treatment plan, etc. This is a big responsibility and the state of Utah understands that. Therefore, they put into place strict requirements that help ensure that all licensed psychologists are properly qualified for the job and the responsibility.
Education Requirements for Psychologist Licensing in Utah
Educational requirements exist in every state for individuals who want to become psychologists, including the state of Utah. You must graduate from a doctoral program in psychology that has been accredited by the Council on Accreditation or by a professional accrediting body approved by the Council for Higher Education. You have a lot of choices when it comes to doctoral programs in Utah, including those offered by Brigham Young University, the University of Phoenix and the University of Utah. You will find a full list of campus-based and online programs for psychology in Utah here. Read a more thorough guide about UT psychology schools.
The doctoral requirement does not apply to individuals who are pursuing a career in school psychology. For this career, you will need to complete a Master’s Degree program in school psychology and fulfill the state of Utah’s additional requirements for a level 1 or level 2 school psychologist.
Supervised Professional Experience Requirements for a Psychologist
Psychology licensure candidates in Utah must complete 4,000 hours of what the state calls “supervised professional experience.” This must take place under an individual who has been certified as a supervisor of psychology or mental health therapy training by the Board and they must have at least 2 years (4,000 hours) of experience as a licensed psychologist.
The 4,000 hours of supervised professional experience must be completed in not less than 2 years and not more than 4 years following the awarding of the Doctorate Degree and it must be completed while the candidate is enrolled in an approved doctoral program or licensed as a certified psychology resident. It must include at least 1 hour of supervision for every 20 hours of pre-doctoral training and experience and 1 hour for every 40 hours of post-doctoral training and experience.
Examinations for the Psychologist License in Utah
Psychology licensure applicants in Utah must complete the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) developed and administered by the American Association of State Psychology Board before being awarded a license. This test is nationally-recognized and consists of 225 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within 3 hours and 20 minutes’ time. Candidates must complete the examination with a passing score as recommended by the ASPPB.
Individuals must also take the Utah Psychologist Law and Ethics Examination with a score of not less than 75%.
Note: You may find additional information about how to earn a psychology license in the state of Utah by visiting the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
Psychologist Career Outlook In Utah
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are approximately 850 clinical counseling and school psychologists in the state of Utah. In May of 2011, it was reported that these psychologists earned an annual median wage of $58,530. The BLS defines the median wage as the center – half the psychologists in Utah earn more than the center line and half earn less. The lowest ten percent of psychologists on a national level earned lower than $39,060 and the top ten percent earned an annual median wage exceeding $110,410.
