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. The majority of respondents (62%) accept programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) but also allow for other alternatives. Additionally, most respondents (75%) require regional accreditation of the degree granting institution. Data from 2023 also reveals that 52% of respondents have a residency requirement.
DEGREE

REGIONAL ACCREDITATION

RESIDENCY

APA ACCREDITATION

CPA ACCREDITATION

If APA/CPA accreditation is required, is there an equivalent path to licensure?

Courses & Content Areas
In some jurisdictions, specific courses or content areas are required for licensure.


See the InFocus 2023 publication for a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction breakdown of courses & content areas.