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 63% 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 (75%) require regional accreditation of the degree-granting institution. Data from 2025 also reveals that a little over half of respondents (53%) have a residency requirement.
Doctoral Degree
out of 60 respondents
require at a minimum
a doctoral degree
5 require Master’s or Doctoral
Regional Accreditation
out of 60 respondents
require regional
accreditation
Residency
out of 60 respondents
have a residency
requirement
APA/CPA ACCREDITATION
25 respondents reported YES to an equivalent path to licensure if APA/CPA accreditation is required.
60 respondents reported YES to APA/CPA satisfying educational requirements for licensure in their jurisdiction.