Florida is one of the most populous and diverse states in the country, making it a hub for professionals across various growing industries, including psychology, counseling, therapy, and social work. As demand for mental health services continues to rise, so does the need for qualified psychologists equipped to serve Florida’s diverse communities.
To become a licensed psychologist in Florida, it’s essential to follow a clearly defined educational and licensure pathway. The state requires candidates to earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or PsyD) in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited institution. This degree is a foundational requirement when applying for licensure.
Planning your academic journey early is key. You’ll need to understand not only what level of education is required, but also what credentials, supervised experience, and examinations are part of the licensing process. Some students choose to complete their bachelor’s degree in psychology at one institution and pursue their doctoral studies elsewhere—an approach that works well when the undergraduate program is regionally accredited, such as the one offered at Florida National University (FNU).
By starting with a solid undergraduate foundation, future psychologists can build toward the qualifications needed for licensure and long-term success in the field.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a licensed psychologist in Florida is completing a bachelor’s degree, typically in psychology or a closely related discipline such as sociology, criminal justice, or human services. This foundational degree introduces key psychological theories, research methods, and behavioral science concepts that you’ll build on in graduate studies.
Most undergraduate programs take about four years of full-time study to complete. While some students decide early on to major in psychology, others discover their interest in the field later in their academic careers. If you’re switching majors or returning to school, it’s essential to select a regionally accredited program to ensure that your credits transfer smoothly to graduate-level institutions.
At Florida National University (FNU), students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology either online or on campus, offering flexibility for working adults or those with other responsibilities. The program is designed to prepare graduates for advanced degrees and professional roles in the fields of mental health, education, or research.
Do You Need a Master’s Degree First?
In many cases, students earn a master’s degree along the way to completing their doctoral program—especially in PsyD or Ph.D. tracks that offer dual enrollment. However, a standalone master’s degree in psychology is not required to apply for licensure in Florida. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, earning a master’s degree first can help you meet prerequisites for a doctoral program.
Step 2: Earn a Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or PsyD)
Florida National University does not currently offer a doctoral psychology program. However, many universities offer combined master’s and doctoral programs, allowing students to earn both degrees through a streamlined track. The structure and length of these programs can vary depending on the institution and specialization.
While a doctoral degree is required for licensure, students may begin their academic journey at different points. Some enter directly into a bachelor’s program, while others start with an associate degree and later transfer credits. At FNU, students can transfer eligible credits from an associate program into the Bachelor of Science in Psychology, which provides a strong foundation for graduate-level study.
Each student’s path may look different, but with support from FNU’s academic advisors, it’s possible to build a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and meets Florida’s licensure requirements.
Step 3: Complete 4,000 Hours of Supervised Experience
To qualify for licensure as a psychologist in Florida, candidates must complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience—a key requirement set by the Florida Board of Psychology.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- 2,000 hours must be completed as part of a doctoral internship, typically during your Ph.D. or PsyD program.
- The remaining 2,000 hours are completed after graduation in a postdoctoral setting, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
This experience enables future psychologists to develop real-world clinical skills by working with patients, adhering to ethical standards, and gaining confidence in applying psychological theories to practice.
Tip: Some graduates may qualify for a provisional license while completing postdoctoral hours, allowing them to practice under supervision.
Supervised Practice Hours
Since you are guiding the lives of others, practice is certainly needed while being supervised by a licensed professional. You must complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience to gain your own licensure. Intimidating as that sounds, 2,000 of those hours will be completed during a doctoral internship, leaving the remaining 2,000 to be completed postdoc. While it won’t count towards your 4,000, you can also volunteer to be a mental health counselor to gain even more practice while helping others. Alternatively, if you wish to start working before obtaining your official license, consider applying for a provincial license. Then, if you hold one of the previously mentioned doctoral degrees, you’re allowed to practice under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Step 4: Pass the Required Psychology Licensing Exams
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
- This is a national exam administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
- It assesses your knowledge of core psychological principles and practices.
- A minimum score of 500 out of 800 is required to pass.
Florida Laws and Rules Examination
- This state-specific exam ensures that you understand the legal and ethical standards for practicing psychology in Florida.
- Administered by Pearson VUE, it covers statutes, regulations, and professional conduct.
- You must score at least 80% to pass.
Financial Aid and Support at FNU
Earning a degree is a significant investment, and FNU strives to make higher education more accessible. Through our Financial Aid department, students can explore scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. Our team also assists with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help determine eligibility for federal student aid, including loans and Pell Grants.
With academic advising, financial support, and flexible options for working adults, FNU is committed to helping students take their first steps toward becoming licensed psychologists in Florida.
Florida National University Can Help You Get Started
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for psychologists nationwide was $94,310 in 2024. Salaries vary depending on specialization and setting; however, in Florida, psychologists report higher-than-average earnings, with mean annual wages of approximately $110,490 (BLS, May 2023). This makes Florida a promising state for pursuing a career in psychology.
If you’re considering this path, your first step is earning a bachelor’s degree. At Florida National University (FNU), the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program provides the academic foundation necessary to pursue advanced graduate studies and, ultimately, licensure. With courses in research methods, behavioral science, and counseling theory, FNU graduates are well-prepared to continue their education toward doctoral psychology programs or pursue related entry-level roles in human services.
the first few. Apply for your undergrad in Psychology at FNU by contacting one of our advisors today
