In order to practice independently as a psychologist in the U.S. and Canada, the prevailing standard is that a psychologist must have obtained a doctoral degree in psychology. Approximately 60% of respondents accept programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), and 48% accept programs by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), but they also allow for other alternatives. Additionally, most respondents (74%) require regional accreditation of the degree-granting institution. Data from 2024 also reveals that a little over half of respondents (57%) have a residency requirement.
Doctoral Degree
out of 58 respondents
require at a minimum
a doctoral degree
6 require Master’s or Doctoral
Regional Accreditation
out of 58 respondents
require regional
accreditation
Residency
out of 58 respondents
have a residency
requirement
APA/CPA ACCREDITATION
23 respondents reported YES to an equivalent path to licensure if APA/CPA accreditation is required
36 respondents reported YES to APA/CPA satisfying educational requirements for licensure in their jurisdiction
Courses & Content Areas
