Learn how to become a psychologist in Missouri with the following guide that provides details on the education, training and licensing requirements for this profession. Find out all you need to know about the career of a psychologist in the state of Missouri.

Should I Become a Psychologist in Missouri

In order to become a psychologist in Missouri, or in any other state in the US for that matter, you must possess a certain skill set and education. The following table outlines the basics of the career of a psychologist.

Education Required Master’s or a Doctoral Degree
Training Required
Licenses/Certifications Required in Missouri
Key Skills Analytical Skills, Empathy, Interpersonal Skills, Ethics, Observational Skills, Communication Skills, Patience, Integrity
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $87,450 (Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 14%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Missouri $81,700 (Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook for Psychologists in Missouri

As per the data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists in the US are expected to experience an employment growth rate of 14%, which is a lot higher than the average for all occupations. Demand for Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists in Missouri is also going to be high, with a predicted growth rate of 16% between 2016 and 2026, as per O*Net Online. This high demand will be a result of a number of factors, such as an increasing awareness about various developmental disorders and a focus on mental health and stability.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Missouri

    1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

In order to enroll in a doctoral degree in psychology, you will first have to complete a 4-year long undergraduate degree. There is no specific major requirement at this level.

    1. Consider a Master’s Degree in Psychology

Even though this degree is not mandatory, it is recommended for those who do not have any prior knowledge of psychology.

    1. Graduate from a Psy.D. or a Ph.D. Degree

Most employers choose to hire those with a doctoral degree in psychology. Students can either go for a Psy.D. or a Ph.D, depending on their future career goals.

    1. Get a License
In Missouri, the psychology licensure process is overseen by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. Detailed guidance about the licensure process and its requirements is given on the official website for the Division.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist in Missouri?

To become a psychologist in Missouri, you will need to invest around 10 years of your academic life. This will include 4 years of a bachelor’s degree, following by 4 years of a doctoral program and almost 2 years of supervised experience.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Psychologist in Missouri?

If you intend on becoming a psychologist in Missouri, you will need to fulfill certain requirements. These include the following:

  • Get a bachelor’s degree
  • Get a doctoral degree
  • Get the required amount of experience in Missouri
  • Get a license from the Missouri Division of Professional Registration

 

How Much Can I Make as a Psychologist in Missouri?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists in Missouri made an annual mean income of $81,700. The amount of salary earned varied according to the location of practice and the industry of employment. For instance, psychologists working in Child Day Care Services made the highest amount of annual mean wage, earning $120,130 in the US in 2019.