Psychology Programs in Michigan

Naturally, anyone interested in starting a career as a psychologist in Michigan must first understand the profession’s requirements. They must know what steps to take to receive a license and, ideally, understand the possible annual average salary.

Most importantly, however, candidates must understand the training programs available, the possible degrees and awards, and the best places to receive such education. Thankfully for readers of this page, we have explored all these considerations in detail below.

The next section showcases all of the most prominent schools in Michigan offering acclaimed and accredited psychology programs. We discuss the degrees, awards, and specialty disciplines candidates can pursue at these schools.

Later, we also explore the steps involved in receiving a psychology license in Michigan and the expected prospective salary.

Top Psychology Schools in Michigan

The following are the top colleges and universities in Michigan to receive training as an aspiring psychologist.

Licensure & Certification

The Michigan Board of Psychology licenses psychologists in Michigan. The board issues candidates full licensure and limited licenses, depending on their educational qualifications.

For a full license, individuals must have, at the very least, a doctorate and passing scores on the national board examination. They are also expected to participate in postdoctoral supervised practice to receive the base level of job experience needed to succeed. Currently, the state mandates 4,000 hours of experience in total—the first 2000 must be acquired through an internship, while the last 2,000 must be acquired in a postdoctoral environment.

Candidates can work part-time or full-time if they meet the required hours. They are expected to participate in the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) for their professional examination.

Candidates with a Master’s degree may acquire a limited license. This allows them to carry out their duties under supervision until they receive a full license.

Salary & Career Outlook

Michigan psychologists earn an annual average salary that can be divided into three categories. The first category belongs to those in the bottom 10%—typically because they are just starting their careers. Those in this category earn an annual average salary of $52,084.

The second category belongs to those who have done enough to become among the state’s average earners. Their annual salary of $81,891 is also well in line with the national average.

Lastly, psychologists in Michigan who have finally made it to the top 10 percent are usually among the top 10 percent and can earn as much as $128,758 in annual average salary.

Along with experience, factors like credentials and specialty areas influence the salary of a psychologist in the state. Location is another key factor to consider.

Regarding favorable locations, psychologists in Ionia are the highest-paid in Michigan, taking home an annual average salary of $143,507. Those in Adrian are also notable, with an annual average salary of $133,865.

Job Outlook

The field of psychology is expected to continue its rapid increase in popularity and demand across the country. In Michigan, more and more employers are working with psychologists to improve the mental health of their workers.

These professionals are also in high demand in schools, where student mental health is becoming a major priority. Of course, several positions will continue to open up as older psychologists begin to retire or explore other options.