Learn how to become a psychologist in Montana with this detailed guide on the requirements, salary and career outlook for this profession in The Treasure State. Find out all you need to know about the licensing requirements under the Board of Psychologists at the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Should I Become a Psychologist in Montana?

If you are good with skills such as problem solving and communication, and have a knack for helping people in distress, you might want to consider the career of a psychologist. The following table provides a detailed look into this career.

Education Required Master’s or a Doctoral Degree
Training 3,200 Hours of Supervised Professional Experience
Licenses/Certifications Required in Montana
Key Skills Analytical Skills, Integrity, Interpersonal Skills, Observational Skills, Communication Skills, Patience
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $87,450 (Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 14%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Montana $64,160 (Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook for Psychologists in Montana

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs for psychologists in the US is expected to grow by a tremendous 14% in the years from 2018 to 2028. The state of Montana is expected to experience a high growth of 13% from 2016 to 2026, as per data for Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists by O*Net Online. This demand is likely to be driven by the aging population needing more psychological help, along with veterans suffering from war trauma and people with different disorders.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Montana

    1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
In order to enroll in a doctoral level program in psychology, students need to complete a 4-year long bachelor’s degree first. There is no specific major requirement at this stage.
    1. Enroll in a Master’s Degree (Optional)
Students who go for this degree may be able to avail certain job opportunities that require a master’s degree only. Besides that, a standalone master’s degree in psychology can be a great stepping stone for a doctoral degree, especially for those who have no prior knowledge of the subject.
    1. Get a Psy. D. or a Ph.D. Degree
This is the minimum level of education required to become a practicing psychologist for most opportunities in Montana. A Psy.D. degree would be ideal for those who intend to go into clinical practice, whereas a Ph.D. is meant mostly for psychologists in research.
    1. Get Licensed
The Montana Department of Labor and Industry oversees the Board of Psychologists in the state. This board is in charge of all licensing related concerns, including issuing new licenses and renewing old ones. Please check the board’s official website for more detail on the requirements for eligibility.

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

In order to become a psychologist in Montana, students will have to invest nearly 10 years of their academic life. This would include a 4-year long undergraduate program, followed by a doctoral degree and supervised professional experience.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Psychologist in Montana?

Aspiring psychologists in Montana will have to meet the following requirements to practice this profession:

  • Get a bachelor’s degree
  • Complete a doctoral program
  • Complete the required number of supervised professional experience hours
  • Apply for and get a license
  • Look for a job

How Much Can I Make after Becoming a Psychologist in Montana?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists in Montana made an annual mean income of $64,160 in 2019. Income potential varied according to specialty and the location of practice.