A clinical psychologist holds a doctorate such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology) and has a state license in order to practice. Clinically oriented programs are usually about 5 years in length (4 years of classes and 1 year of full time internship), post bachelor’s degree, that is! Research Psychologists generally hold a Ph.D. and work in academic settings, therefore generally do not have a license.

Master’s level counselors usually have a different type of license. Examples include “Marriage and Family Therapist” license or “Licensed Counselor” Master’s programs generally range from 2-3 years if you go full time.

4 years for a B.A or B.S degree, given the time dedicated toward the degree, it can be completed much sooner. 18 months to 2 years for your masters given your field of study. Usually 4 years for your Ph.D, it could take less or longer, the 4 years greatly depends on the students ability to dedicate time to study.

So, under normal circumstances anywhere from 8 to 10 years for your Doctorate degree in Psychology.

As for which colleges or universities that are best to study for Psychology, here are some of the top psychology schools in the U.S.

• University of California – Irvine
• Tufts University
• Maryville University St. Louis

So it looks like you have your work cut out for you becoming a psychologist. Good luck and best wishes!