What is Psychology?
Earning a psychology degree in Florida offers numerous career opportunities in social services. Psychologists apply their knowledge and research to address mental health issues, treat substance abuse, and assist individuals in overcoming psychological challenges. With a psychology degree, you can also contribute to the field through research or teach at colleges and universities. Whether you're interested in helping individuals directly or advancing psychological research, becoming a psychologist in Florida can lead to a rewarding and impactful career.
Becoming a psychologist in Florida offers a variety of career paths, including applied, research, and mental health psychology. Mental health psychologists focus on helping individuals with psychological disorders, while research psychologists conduct studies to expand knowledge in the field. Applied psychologists utilize both principles and research to solve real-world problems. Whether you aim to treat mental health issues, advance research, or apply psychology to practical solutions, pursuing a career as a psychologist in Florida provides diverse opportunities for growth and impact.
Psychologists' job responsibilities vary but often include conducting studies on behavior and brain function, observing individuals in surveys, identifying emotional patterns, and discussing treatment plans with clients. They may also write research papers and reports, as well as supervise interns, clinicians, or other counseling professionals.
A psychology degree offers career options beyond becoming a psychologist, such as counselor or therapist. Professionals in these roles help people improve their lives, addressing social, emotional, and mental health issues, and assisting patients in managing the challenges that come with physical and psychological ailments.
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Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Psychology Programs in Florida
University of Florida
Score: 95.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,381
- Out-of-State:$28,659
- Net Price: $11,521
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 54,814
- Undergrad Students: 34,924
- Graduate Students: 19,890
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Florida State University
Score: 87.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,656
- Out-of-State:$18,786
- Net Price: $14,903
- Acceptance Rate: 25%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 43,234
- Undergrad Students: 32,217
- Graduate Students: 11,017
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of South Florida
Score: 85.5
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,410
- Out-of-State:$17,324
- Net Price: $11,578
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 48,572
- Undergrad Students: 37,269
- Graduate Students: 11,303
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
University of Florida-Online
Score: 85.23
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,876
- Out-of-State:$16,579
- Net Price: $10,412
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 5,462
- Undergrad Students: 5,462
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 51:1
University of Miami
Score: 83.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,926
- Out-of-State:$59,926
- Net Price: $41,028
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 19,593
- Undergrad Students: 12,883
- Graduate Students: 6,710
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
University of Central Florida
Score: 83.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,368
- Out-of-State:$22,467
- Net Price: $13,110
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 69,233
- Undergrad Students: 59,470
- Graduate Students: 9,763
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 29:1
Florida International University
Score: 83.28
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,565
- Out-of-State:$18,963
- Net Price: $10,742
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 53,953
- Undergrad Students: 44,363
- Graduate Students: 9,590
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Florida A&M University
Score: 80.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,785
- Out-of-State:$17,725
- Net Price: $15,491
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 9,265
- Undergrad Students: 7,796
- Graduate Students: 1,469
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of North Florida
Score: 79.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,389
- Out-of-State:$20,793
- Net Price: $10,628
- Acceptance Rate: 62%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 16,453
- Undergrad Students: 14,264
- Graduate Students: 2,189
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Florida Atlantic University
Score: 79.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,879
- Out-of-State:$17,324
- Net Price: $9,839
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 30,790
- Undergrad Students: 24,614
- Graduate Students: 6,176
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
The University of West Florida
Score: 78.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,360
- Out-of-State:$19,241
- Net Price: $8,908
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 14,371
- Undergrad Students: 9,661
- Graduate Students: 4,710
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Rollins College
Score: 76.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $58,300
- Out-of-State:$58,300
- Net Price: $37,134
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 3,013
- Undergrad Students: 2,595
- Graduate Students: 418
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Nova Southeastern University
Score: 75.78
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $37,080
- Out-of-State:$37,080
- Net Price: $32,756
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- Total Enrollment: 20,877
- Undergrad Students: 7,219
- Graduate Students: 13,658
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Jacksonville University
Score: 75.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $46,180
- Out-of-State:$46,180
- Net Price: $25,745
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 3,957
- Undergrad Students: 2,662
- Graduate Students: 1,295
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Stetson University
Score: 74.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $55,220
- Out-of-State:$55,220
- Net Price: $22,914
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 3,669
- Undergrad Students: 2,338
- Graduate Students: 1,331
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Florida Gulf Coast University
Score: 72.79
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,118
- Out-of-State:$25,162
- Net Price: $10,548
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 16,167
- Undergrad Students: 14,227
- Graduate Students: 1,940
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Florida Southern College
Score: 72.31
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $42,360
- Out-of-State:$42,360
- Net Price: $30,462
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 3,194
- Undergrad Students: 2,626
- Graduate Students: 568
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Saint Leo University
Score: 72.22
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,360
- Out-of-State:$28,360
- Net Price: $19,478
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- Total Enrollment: 10,231
- Undergrad Students: 7,603
- Graduate Students: 2,628
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
The University of Tampa
Score: 70.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,424
- Out-of-State:$33,424
- Net Price: $35,975
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 11,054
- Undergrad Students: 10,111
- Graduate Students: 943
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Barry University
Score: 70.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,450
- Out-of-State:$33,450
- Net Price: $23,930
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 6,836
- Undergrad Students: 3,150
- Graduate Students: 3,686
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
The Baptist College of Florida
Score: 70.31
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,800
- Out-of-State:$13,800
- Net Price: $8,904
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 352
- Undergrad Students: 331
- Graduate Students: 21
- Grads Salary: $45,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Albizu University-Miami
Score: 69.86
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,128
- Out-of-State:$13,128
- Net Price: $36,302
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 787
- Undergrad Students: 226
- Graduate Students: 561
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Eckerd College
Score: 68.74
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $50,374
- Out-of-State:$50,374
- Net Price: $40,122
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 1,986
- Undergrad Students: 1,986
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Score: 68.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $37,990
- Out-of-State:$37,990
- Net Price: $31,103
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Total Enrollment: 3,875
- Undergrad Students: 3,094
- Graduate Students: 781
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
St. Thomas University
Score: 67.85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,770
- Out-of-State:$34,770
- Net Price: $27,029
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 6,455
- Undergrad Students: 3,967
- Graduate Students: 2,488
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Online Psychology Education in Florida
Considering a psychology degree in Florida? This major is perfect for those interested in cognitive, emotional, and social processes. Programs typically focus on developing skills to observe, interpret, and record how people interact with each other and their environment.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% growth in psychologist jobs from 2023 to 2033. However, related counseling fields like substance abuse, behavioral disorder, mental health counselors & marriage and family therapists are expected to grow by 16-19%.
Employment growth for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is driven by rising demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, and social service agencies. The growing awareness of mental health's link to learning and the aging population's mental health needs will also increase job opportunities. Additionally, veterans dealing with war trauma are expected to contribute to the demand for these professionals.
The educational services, healthcare, and social assistance industry in Florida generates $100 billion annually. As of May 2020, the state employed 1,850 psychiatrists and tens of thousands of counselors, consistently hiring more professionals in these fields than most states.
Those aiming for psychologist and counseling positions in Florida should consider enrolling in a local college or university program. Out-of-state degrees may complicate licensure, as each state has different requirements. Florida institutions are best equipped to prepare students for state-specific credentialing and relevant coursework.
To pursue a career in psychology or a related field, you must enroll in an academic program. Higher education levels improve job prospects, so carefully consider your professional goals before selecting the best degree.
Online Associate (AS)
While some colleges and universities offer associate degrees in psychology, this level of education is not enough to pursue most professions in the field. Students enrolled will receive a broad introduction to the career and coursework may help build related skills. Some entry-level jobs in social services, management, or customer service may be available, but additional education will be necessary to qualify for most professional opportunities.
Associate degrees in psychology and related majors generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework. For full-time students, graduation requirements can generally be met within two years.
Students will be able to choose from a wide variety of elective classes, but examples of core psychology coursework include:
- Child Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
- Psychology of Aging
- Counseling
Online Bachelors (BS )
Bachelor’s degrees in psychology are extremely popular in the United States. This is due in large part to the fact that graduates can choose to pursue a wide variety of careers, as well as further education that can lead to even more opportunities and higher pay potential. Psychology degrees at this level can also be beneficial for those pursuing seemingly unrelated fields, such as management and business.
Bachelor’s degrees consist of 120 credit hours of coursework and take full-time students approximately four years to complete. Part-time students are likely to need an additional two to four years to graduate. Curriculums vary, but students can anticipate taking a mixture of psychology coursework, labs, and electives. Common coursework includes social psychology, biological psychology, sensation and perception, and introduction to addiction theories. While every college and university program is different, most are designed to prepare students to enter graduate counseling programs in the future.
Many colleges and universities also offer opportunities to select a concentration.
Some of the most common specialties in this field are:
- General Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Addiction Counseling
- Behavioral Psychology
- Organizational Psychology
Online Masters (MS)
It’s common for those with bachelor’s degrees in psychology to enroll in master’s programs after graduation. This is because many counseling-related professions in the state require candidates to have, at minimum, graduate-level degrees from accredited institutions. It’s important to note, however, that a general psychology degree may not suffice for every job type. To become licensed as a clinical social worker in Florida, a master’s degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school of social work is necessary. Graduates from any mater’s program will have more employment opportunities and are likely to make more money than those with only bachelor’s degrees.
Most master’s degrees in psychology consist of 60 credit hours of coursework and take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Every program is a little different, but coursework tends to focus on social psychology, cognitive process, and theories of personality. Students can expect a combination of classroom learning, research, and practical applications. Some programs will tend more towards research, theory, or clinical work than others.
Common courses include:
- Social Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Evolutionary Psychology
- Research Methods
- Theories of Personality
It is also common for colleges and universities to offer psychology students opportunities to specialize in a specific area.
Some of the most common concentrations offered include:
- Educational Psychology
- Research
- Clinical Psychology
- Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Online Doctorate (PhD)
A doctorate in psychology is the highest possible degree in the field. Not only can it lead to many exciting, personally rewarding, and lucrative career opportunities, but it is required to become a licensed psychologist in Florida. This degree level is not, however, necessary for many other related professions.
Prospective students will need to choose between the doctor of psychology (PsyD) degree and the doctor of philosophy in psychology (PhD) degree. The PsyD degree is best suited for those interested in clinical work, while the PhD tends to be more appropriate for professionals pursuing careers in research.
Most doctoral degrees consist of between 60 to 90 credit hours and take full-time students five to seven years to complete. Prior to graduation, students will need to pass a comprehensive examination and write a dissertation.
Every institution is different, but some examples of possible coursework include:
- Behavioral Assessments
- Professional Ethics in Psychology
- Research Methods
- Cognitive Development
- Neuroscience
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Become a Psychologist in Florida
If you want to become a psychology professional in Florida, the first step is determining your ultimate career goals in the field. As previously mentioned, degrees at each level can lead to varying employment opportunities. Identifying the type of work you want to perform most will help guide your search for an applicable degree program.
Licensed psychologists must have doctorate degrees in order to practice in Florida. The licensure process for aspiring professionals is overseen by the Florida Board of Psychology.
There are several licensure types available in the state:
- Psychologist Licensure by Examination
- Psychologist Licensure by Endorsement: ABPP
- Psychologist Licensure by Endorsement: 10 Years of Experience
- Provisional Psychologist
- Limited License Psychologist
- Board Approved Continuing Education Provider
- Out-of-State Telehealth Provider
Those seeking psychologist licensure by examination will need to submit official doctoral level transcripts as proof of graduation from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). They must also have 4,000 hours of supervised experience. Additionally, candidates must take and pass the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Florida Laws and Rules examination prior to licensure.
The Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage, Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling oversee licensure for many related positions in the field.
Some of the available licensure options include:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
- Certified Master Social Worker
- Qualified Supervisor
Education and experience requirements will vary depending on the credential sought and can be found on the state’s government website. Most of these professions, however, necessitate master’s degrees, a set number of supervised clinical experience hours, and a passing score on one or more related examinations.
See top 50 affordable psychology schoolsPotential Careers for Psychology Graduates
Depending on the type of psychology degree you choose to earn, you will be qualified for many different career pathways in Florida.
- Substance Abuse / Addiction Counselor
Substance abuse and addiction counselors provide treatment and support to patients struggling with or recovering from substance abuse. They often provide counseling to individuals and groups, create treatment plans for their patients, implement therapeutic treatments, evaluate patient progress, and maintain documentation. These professionals are also responsible for updating patient histories. According to BLS, substance abuse and addiction counselors make an average base salary of $53,710 per year. - Residential Counselor
Residential counselors provide individual and group counseling services to residents in live-in patient facilities. They often oversee treatment for a variety of patient types, from people with disabilities or addictions to the elderly or troubled youth. These professionals may also help facility staff members handle crucial situations and resolve conflicts within the residence. According to PayScale, residential counselors make an average salary of $39,700 per year. - Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counselors provide diagnoses and treatment to patients with mental health issues and illnesses. They often specialize in a particular area of care, including eating disorders, addiction, and young adult development, offering one-on-one and group counseling sessions. According to BLS, mental health counselors make an average base salary of $56,980 per year. - Grief Counselor
Grief counselors help guide patients through the bereavement process, providing assistance with issues related to the deaths of loved ones. They offer support and insight to those moving through the various stages of grief. These professionals also promote healthy coping mechanisms to ensure recovery. According to PayScale, grief counselors make an average base salary of $46,850 per year. - School Counselor
School and guidance counselors help students identify, work towards, and achieve their personal, academic, social, and developmental goals. They often assist newly transferred students adjust and offer guidance to individuals preparing for college. These professionals may also work with parents, refer students for additional support services, and intervene during challenging situations. According to the BLS, educational, guidance, and career counselors make an average base salary of $56,920 per year. - Clinical Social Worker
Clinical social workers provide emotional and mental support to individuals through therapy. They may perform a wide variety of tasks including communicating with patients, conducting psychosocial evaluations, and coordinating patient care interactions. These professionals often work in hospitals, mental health clinics, residential nursing facilities, home healthcare companies, and substance abuse treatment centers. According to PayScale, healthcare social workers make an average base salary of $62,990 per year. - Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists evaluate patient symptoms, behaviors, and past medical histories in order to determine whether or not mental disorders are present. Once they identify issues that are present and offer a diagnosis, they provide the necessary guidance to work towards recovery. These professionals also prescribe treatments and/or medications to assist patients in managing, easing, or healing disorders. According to PayScale, psychiatrists make an average base salary of $215,600 per year.
Sources:
- Psychologists. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved on September 10, 2021 from:
- Licensing and Registration. Florida Board of Psychology. Retrieved on September 10, 2021 from:
- Licensing and Registration. Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling. Retrieved on September 10, 2021 from:
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