Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma in 2024

Guide 2 Research; Stillwater (OK); On-site; USD 63,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in mental health is guiding aspiring psychologists through the licensure requirements in Oklahoma. With a focus on education and practical experience, this comprehensive guide provides essential insights into becoming a licensed psychologist. The demand for mental health professionals is high, with job growth projected at 11% over the next decade. This resource not only outlines the educational pathways, including necessary degrees and supervised experiences but also highlights the competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities available in various settings. Join the journey to make a meaningful impact in the field of psychology in Oklahoma.

Qualifications

• Completion of a doctoral degree in psychology is essential.
• Supervised experience of at least two years is required.

Responsibilities

• Gain supervised experience in clinical, counseling, or school psychology.
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Skills

Psychological Assessment

Clinical Supervision

Research Design

Ethical Standards

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

Doctoral Degree in Psychology

Job description

Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma for 2025

As with the rest of the United States, Oklahoma regulates its psychologists. To become a clinical psychologist in the state, you have to meet a relatively long list of Oklahoma psychology licensure requirements. However, that’s not to say the state has too many psychologists.

In fact, the opposite is true. According to a report by the Rural Health Information Hub, all 77 counties of Oklahoma are facing a shortage of mental health providers, which include psychologists and psychiatrists. This is attributed to high poverty rates, high population-to-provider ratios, and long travel times to the nearest provider.

This guide, prepared by our team of experts at Research.com, aims to help aspiring psychologists get started on their psychology career path . We have gathered information to help you navigate the entire process of how to become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma, as well as compiled a list of the top psychology schools in the state.

Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements Table of Contents

Overview of the Psychology Industry in Oklahoma

Many psychology career opportunities in Oklahoma await those who have met psychology licensure requirements. They can work in schools, hospitals and healthcare facilities, mental health clinics, government agencies like the Veterans Administration and the Department of Corrections, or in business and industry. They can also opt to run a private practice.

There is a high demand for licensed psychologists in the state. Moreover, the employment rate for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Oklahoma is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030. Meanwhile, the projected employment growth rates for postsecondary psychology teachers and all other types of psychologists for the same 10-year period are 7% and 4%, respectively.

Psychologists in Oklahoma earn well. In particular, clinical and counseling psychologists earn an annual mean wage of $88,070, while school psychologists earn an average of $63,950 annually. All other kinds of psychologists, on the other hand, earn an average of $95,300. These figures may be lower than the national annual mean wage for these occupations, but the cost of living in Oklahoma is also lower than the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the per capita personal consumption expenditures (PCE) of Oklahoma in 2021 is $38,650. The national per capita PCE is $47,915.

Educational Requirements for Psychologists in Oklahoma

1. Bachelor’s Degree (and Optional Master’s Degree)

You need to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology in Oklahoma or a bachelor’s degree in another field. This will provide the educational foundation and the broad base of knowledge you will need to become a licensed psychologist in the state. If you opt for a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree that is not in psychology, you may have to complete some prerequisite courses before you can qualify for a graduate program.

You also may pursue a master’s degree in psychology or a related field. A master of arts (MA) or master of science (MS) degree in psychology may also come as part of a doctoral program. That means you can skip a stand-alone master’s degree program.

2. Doctoral Degree in Psychology

To obtain a license as a psychologist, you need to complete a doctoral degree program, which can be either a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology. Your clinical psychology degree program must be accredited . It has to be a regionally accredited and American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program. Most doctoral programs in psychology take four to seven years to complete, depending on factors like the program offerings, the school, whether the program includes a master’s degree, and the specialties pursued.

Except for when you’re concentrating on school psychology, you need to have at least three years of study leading to your Ph.D. or PsyD degree, two of which must be full-time study on campus, not including internships. Meanwhile, applicants for a school psychologist license must have at least one year of full-time and on-campus study, excluding internships.

Make sure you are well-equipped to fulfill the goals of psychology ;the Board requires doctoral degrees to include at least 42 hours of “primarily psychological" graduate-level courses and at least three graduate semester hours (totaling 21 hours) in these content areas:

• research design and methodology
• scientific and professional ethics and standards
• statistics and psychometrics
• cognitive-affective bases of behavior
• biological bases of behavior
• social bases of behavior
• individual behavior

Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements

After earning your doctoral degree in psychology, you can proceed with accomplishing the rest of the Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements. The licensure process requires you to:

1. Gain supervised experience.You need to gain at least two years of supervised experience in your field of specialization. One of these two years can be a predoctoral internship as long as it is in clinical, counseling, or school psychology. For this predoctoral internship supervision experience, you must log at least 2,000 hours over at least one calendar year with at least three licensed psychologists. Additionally, you need to be in direct contact with a patient for at least half of this particular experience.

Meanwhile, for postdoctoral supervision experience, you need to log at least 2,000 hours, 75 of which must be individual, face-to-face supervision that is distributed at a rate of 90 minutes per week for each month. But before you start with your postdoc work, you and your supervisor must submit an Application for Institutional Practice Under Supervision form. After completing your postdoc work, you must submit confirmation of the supervised experience online and submit the Application for Health Service Psychologist Certification to the Board.

2. Submit your applicant information form.You may submit your Applicant Information Form to the Board before or after you complete your supervision experience. Along with this form, you also need to submit two passport photos and pay a $400 application fee. Once the Board receives these items, you will be invited to begin the full online application process.

3. Take the Oklahoma psychology licensing exams.You need to take and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), a standardized national exam that assesses your ability to understand and implement complex theories and practices in psychology. The passing score for the EPPP is 500. Afterward, you need to take the Jurisprudence (JP) Examination to make sure that you know and understand the code of ethics and Board rules in Oklahoma. You need to score 70% to pass the JP exam.

4. Submit your application and wait for your license.Submit your application for the license, which will include three reference letters from licensed psychologists who attest to your character and your professional ethics. You will also need to provide documentation of your supervised experience, as well as a list of all the graduate courses you have completed pertaining to your area of specialty.

After submitting your application and meeting all the requirements, all that’s left is for the Board to issue your license.

License Renewal and Continuing Education in Oklahoma

License renewal and continuing education in Oklahoma are needed to renew your psychology license every year. The Oklahoma psychology licensure requirements for renewal are different. Each year, you need to complete a minimum of 20 Board-approved credits of continuing education. Three of these credits must be in ethics. The Board has a list of certain seminars and workshops that fulfill these continuing education requirements.

List of Top Psychology Programs in Oklahoma 2025

Check out this list of the top psychology schools and programs in the state to help you get started on your journey toward earning your degree and meeting Oklahoma psychology licensure requirements. Experts at Research.com looked into each school’s psychology programs, program offerings, accreditation, and the cost of attendance.

Oklahoma State University ‘s Department of Psychology offers a major in psychology for BA and BS students, as well as undergraduate minors in psychology, cognitive science, and neuroscience. It also has a Ph.D. in Psychology, which also awards an MS degree. The Ph.D. can either be in Clinical Psychology or Experimental Psychology.

The clinical psychology program at Oklahoma State University has been continuously accredited by the APA since 1971. The program integrates scientific and professional training through research, practicum, and didactic experiences. Additionally, it has transitioned from a scientist-practitioner model to a clinical science model. It is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science. The program recognizes clinical training as a core competency in the development of clinical scientists and that clinical competency facilitates and informs clinical science. Four specialized tracks are offered: clinical child, health psychology, pediatric psychology, and adult psychopathology.

OSU offers financial aid for psychology students in Oklahoma. The Psychology Department does not encourage graduate students to enroll in its graduate programs while supporting themselves with a job that is not associated with their academic pursuits.

• Status: Public
• Psychology programs: Bachelor’s, Ph.D.
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition and fees:Undergraduate: $32,260 (in-state) | $47,780 (out-of-state)Graduate: $28,430 (in-state) | $38,770 (out-of-state)

2. University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) offers a BS in Psychology program that employs a diverse range of methodologies to better understand the workings of the human mind. Students receive both a firm foundation in psychological theory and hands-on experience through original research and service-learning projects. USAO’s psychology curriculum includes a wide range of courses covering the discipline’s history and development, as well as emerging areas of research in contemporary psychology.

• Location: Chickasha, OK
• Status: Public
• Psychology programs: Bachelor’s
• Tuition and fees: $8,920 (in-state) | $14,515 (out-of-state)
• Master of Science in Psychology Experimental
• Master of Science in Psychology Forensic
• Master of Science in Psychology General
• Education Specialist Degree
• Master of Science in Behavior Analysis

These degrees are designed to be flexible and provide the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify students for specialized employment opportunities. They prepare students for a future doctoral degree in psychology. All programs provide opportunities for research, clinical experiences, and global learning activities, including study tours and international conferences.

• Location: Edmond, OK
• Status: Public
• Psychology programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s
• Tuition and fees:Undergraduate: $274.47 per credit hour (resident) | $637.37 per credit hour (non-resident)Graduate: $346.77 per credit hour (resident) | $763.77 per credit hour (non-resident)

4. University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a psychology major and minor for its undergraduate program, as well as a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology, a Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial-Organizational Psychology.

The doctoral program in clinical psychology requires 90 credit hours of graduate work and completion of at least three full-time academic years of study plus a predoctoral internship. Students must demonstrate their research competence by completing a pre-candidacy project and a doctoral dissertation.

• Location: Tulsa, OK
• Status: Private
• Psychology programs: Bachelor’s, Masters, Ph.D.
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition: $60,554 (undergraduate) | $1,431 per credit hour (graduate)

While there are no graduate degree programs in psychology, there is a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, which would prepare students for licensure as professional counselors in clinical settings.

• Location: Tulsa, OK
• Status: Private
• Psychology programs: Bachelor’s
• Tuition and fees: $43,500

How to Choose the Right Psychology Program in Oklahoma

Selecting the right psychology program is a critical step in pursuing a successful career in psychology. With Oklahoma offering a variety of academic institutions, it's essential to choose a program that aligns with your career goals, interests, and lifestyle. Begin by identifying programs that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or regionally accredited bodies. Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards necessary for licensure and practice.

Equally important is evaluating the program's specializations. Aspiring clinical psychologists, for example, might prioritize programs with a strong clinical focus, while individuals interested in research may look into schools emphasizing experimental psychology. Location and flexibility can also play a vital role, particularly for working professionals or students in remote areas. Many universities now offer online or hybrid courses, allowing students to balance academic responsibilities with personal commitments.

Financial factors should not be overlooked. Oklahoma is home to several institutions that offer competitive tuition rates and financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, or graduate assistantships tailored specifically for psychology students. For a comprehensive list of the best colleges for psychology in Oklahoma, visit this curated guide on the best colleges for psychology in Oklahoma .

Finally, consider the program's success metrics, such as graduation rates, internship placement, and job placement records. These data points can provide valuable insights into the program’s ability to prepare graduates for real-world opportunities in psychology. By thoroughly researching and weighing these factors, you can ensure that the program you choose supports your long-term academic and professional aspirations.

How can I pursue a career as a substance abuse counselor in Oklahoma?

To enter the field of substance abuse counseling in Oklahoma, candidates must complete a dedicated program or training series focused on addiction studies and recovery methods. This pathway typically involves enrolling in an accredited course, securing supervised clinical experience in behavioral health, and passing any state-specific examinations required for certification. Unlike traditional psychology licensure, the credentialing process for substance abuse counselors emphasizes practical interventions and community-based strategies. For a comprehensive outline of the necessary educational and professional steps, refer to how to become a substance abuse counselor in Oklahoma .

What are the benefits of joining professional psychology associations in Oklahoma?

Joining professional psychology associations can offer numerous advantages to psychologists and psychology students in Oklahoma. These associations provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts that help professionals in their career development and success.

• Networking Opportunities: Professional associations provide a platform for psychologists to connect with peers, mentors, and other professionals in the field. These networks allow for the exchange of ideas, collaboration on research projects, and the establishment of relationships that can lead to career advancement opportunities.
• Continuing Education Resources: Many associations offer access to workshops, seminars, and conferences that count toward continuing education (CE) credits, which are required for license renewal in Oklahoma. Attending these events helps professionals stay updated with the latest advancements in psychology, research, and clinical practices.
• Advocacy and Representation: Associations such as the Oklahoma Psychological Association (OPA) actively advocate for policies that promote the interests of psychologists and the mental health profession. They engage in legislative efforts to influence state policies on mental health, licensure requirements, and public access to psychological services, ensuring the profession is well-represented at the governmental level.
• Access to Job Boards and Career Development Tools: Membership in professional organizations often provides access to job boards, career counseling, and mentorship programs. This can be particularly beneficial for new graduates looking to establish their careers and for experienced professionals seeking new opportunities.
• Discounts and Benefits: Members of psychology associations may receive discounts on CE courses, publications, insurance, and other professional services, helping reduce the cost of maintaining their practice or continuing their education.

Exploring Specialized Psychology Careers in Oklahoma

While clinical and counseling psychology remain popular career paths, Oklahoma’s psychology landscape offers exciting opportunities in specialized fields like forensic psychology. These niches combine psychology with other disciplines, opening diverse and impactful career options for those looking to expand their professional horizons.

Forensic Psychology: A Growing Field

Forensic psychology is one of the most dynamic intersections of psychology and the legal system. Forensic psychologists in Oklahoma play critical roles in criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and rehabilitation programs. They often work with law enforcement agencies, conduct psychological evaluations for court cases, and provide expert testimony. Additionally, forensic psychologists contribute to public policy development and research on crime prevention.

The job outlook for forensic psychologists is promising, with growing demand in legal and correctional settings. Professionals in this field often earn competitive salaries, reflecting their expertise and the increasing reliance on psychological insights in the justice system.

Career Pathways in Forensic Psychology

If you are considering a career in forensic psychology, here’s a potential roadmap:

• Education: Begin with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a master’s and a doctorate specializing in forensic psychology.
• Licensure: Fulfill Oklahoma’s licensure requirements, including completing supervised hours and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
• Specialized Training: Gain practical experience through internships or fellowships focusing on legal or correctional psychology.
• Employment Opportunities: Explore roles in correctional facilities, legal consultancy, private practice, or research.

Other Niche Psychology Careers in Oklahoma

Oklahoma also provides opportunities in other specialized fields, including:

• Industrial-Organizational Psychology: Applying psychological principles to workplace environments to improve productivity and employee satisfaction.
• School Psychology: Addressing the mental health needs of students and developing programs to enhance educational outcomes.
• Health Psychology: Working in healthcare settings to promote mental health and well-being among patients with chronic illnesses.

Why Consider a Specialized Career?

Specialized psychology careers offer:

• Diverse Roles: Engage in various settings, from legal courts to corporate boardrooms.
• High Demand: Many specialized fields, including forensic psychology, report growing job opportunities.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful change, whether in individual lives or broader societal systems.

Your Next Steps

• Research programs tailored to your area of interest, such as Oklahoma State University's clinical tracks or forensic psychology courses.
• Pursue internships or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your chosen specialty.
• Stay informed about industry trends through resources provided by professional associations like the Oklahoma Psychological Association (OPA).

What are the emerging trends in child psychology in Oklahoma?

As child psychology continues to evolve, several emerging trends are shaping the profession in Oklahoma. One of the most significant trends is the integration of technology into therapeutic practices. Telehealth services, including virtual therapy sessions, have become increasingly popular in Oklahoma, especially in rural areas where access to mental health professionals may be limited. Child psychologists are now using video conferencing and digital tools to provide remote therapy, ensuring that children who need psychological support can access it from the comfort of their homes. This trend is expected to grow, making child psychology services more accessible to a wider population.

Another trend is the growing emphasis on early intervention and prevention. Research has shown that addressing mental health issues early in a child's development can lead to better long-term outcomes. As a result, there is an increasing focus on identifying and addressing issues like anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders at an earlier stage. Child psychologists in Oklahoma are increasingly collaborating with schools, pediatricians, and community programs to offer preventive services and early screenings. This shift towards prevention has created new opportunities for psychologists to work in schools and community health organizations.

In addition, culturally competent care is becoming more critical in child psychology as Oklahoma's population becomes more diverse. Child psychologists must be equipped to work with children from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and address issues such as racial trauma, acculturation stress, and family dynamics unique to different communities. As the demand for culturally aware and sensitive care increases, child psychologists in Oklahoma are seeking specialized training in these areas to meet the needs of the state's diverse population, while new professionals are learning how to become a child psychologist in Oklahoma. Understanding these emerging trends is essential for anyone pursuing a career in child psychology, as they highlight areas of growth and the skills required to succeed in the evolving field.

What Other Licenses Are Available for Psychology Professionals in Oklahoma?

In addition to the traditional psychology license, there are other licenses available for psychology professionals in Oklahoma, such as the MFT license in Oklahoma . This license allows professionals to work as marriage and family therapists, providing counseling and therapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Other licenses, such as the licensed professional counselor (LPC) or licensed behavioral practitioner (LBP), may also be available for psychology professionals in Oklahoma. It's essential to research and understand the different licenses and their requirements to determine which one aligns with your career goals and aspirations.

Navigate Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements

Begin your journey as a licensed psychologist and enroll in a psychology program. You can then earn your PsyD or Ph.D., meet all Oklahoma psychology licensure requirements, and practice as a licensed professional to help with the mental health and well-being of individuals who need it. There are many psychology degree careers available for you, whether in Oklahoma, other states, or other parts of the globe.

In addition to the traditional psychology career paths, those interested in the intersection of psychology and law might wonder, “What can you do with a forensic psychology degree ?" This niche field offers many unique job paths. Those with forensic psychology degrees can work in law enforcement, legal institutions, penal facilities, and private practices. Expert witnesses, psychiatric exams, and crime victim counseling are common services of forensic psychologists. They may do scholarly research, policymaking, and teaching. The combination of psychological and legal knowledge makes this degree an intriguing and impactful career choice for people interested in both.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Psychologists: All 77 counties in Oklahoma face a shortage of mental health providers, including psychologists and psychiatrists, due to high poverty rates, high population-to-provider ratios, and long travel times to the nearest provider.
• Positive Job Outlook: The employment rate for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Oklahoma is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030, with postsecondary psychology teachers and other psychologists seeing growth rates of 7% and 4%, respectively.
• Competitive Salaries: Clinical and counseling psychologists earn an annual mean wage of $88,070, school psychologists earn $63,950, and other psychologists earn $95,300. While these figures may be lower than the national averages, the cost of living in Oklahoma is also lower.
• Educational Pathway: To become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma, one must earn a bachelor’s degree, possibly a master’s degree, and a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology from an accredited program.
• Licensure Requirements: Key steps include gaining supervised experience, submitting an application and fees, taking the EPPP and Jurisprudence exams, and obtaining references and documentation of experience.
• Top Psychology Programs: Notable programs in Oklahoma include those at Oklahoma State University, University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Tulsa, and Oral Roberts University.

FAQ

• What are the educational requirements to become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma?To become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, a master’s degree (optional but beneficial), and a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology from a regionally accredited and American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program.
• What is the job outlook for psychologists in Oklahoma?The employment rate for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Oklahoma is projected to grow by 11% from 2020 to 2030. Postsecondary psychology teachers and other psychologists will see growth rates of 7% and 4%, respectively.
• What is the average salary for psychologists in Oklahoma?Clinical and counseling psychologists in Oklahoma earn an annual mean wage of $88,070, school psychologists earn $63,950, and other psychologists earn $95,300. These figures may be lower than national averages, but Oklahoma’s cost of living is also lower.
• What are the key steps in the licensure process for psychologists in Oklahoma?Key steps include earning a doctoral degree in psychology, gaining at least two years of supervised experience, submitting an application and fees, taking and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Jurisprudence (JP) exam, and obtaining references and documentation of supervised experience.
• How often must a psychology license be renewed in Oklahoma, and what are the continuing education requirements?Psychology licenses in Oklahoma must be renewed annually. To renew, psychologists must complete a minimum of 20 Board-approved continuing education credits each year, including three credits in ethics.
• What are some top psychology programs in Oklahoma?Top programs include the Clinical Psychology PhD at Oklahoma State University, the BS in Psychology at University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, various undergraduate and master’s programs at University of Central Oklahoma, the Clinical and Industrial-Organizational Psychology PhD programs at University of Tulsa, and the BS and BA in Psychology at Oral Roberts University.
• Can you practice psychology in Oklahoma with just a master’s degree?In Oklahoma, a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is required to become a licensed psychologist. A master’s degree alone is not sufficient for licensure, though it can be part of the pathway towards earning a doctoral degree.
• What specializations are available for psychologists in Oklahoma?Specializations include clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and forensic psychology. Each offers unique career paths and opportunities in various settings such as schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practice.
• Rural Health Information Hub. (2023). Health Professional Shortage Areas: Mental Health, by County, 2023 Oklahoma. RHIhub .
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Oklahoma. BLS .
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3033 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists. BLS .
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3034 School Psychologists. BLS .
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3039 Psychologists, All Other. BLS .