Psychology Programs in Utah

Several factors determine whether or not candidates succeed as psychologists in Utah. In this case, the exact school they attend and the program they graduate from are vital criteria.

Candidates who spend some time identifying the best programs for them will statistically have a better chance of success on the job. The article on this page aims to introduce students to some of the most prominent training programs that they can consider when starting their psychology career in Utah.

We don’t stop there. We also try to break down specific degrees and awards that candidates can receive from these institutions while highlighting their strengths so that students can know what to expect when they receive admission.

Lastly, the guide includes sections on the steps needed to acquire a psychology license in Utah and the salary figures candidates can expect to take home at the end of each year.

Top Psychology Schools in Utah

The following are among the best psychology schools in Utah.

Licensure & Certification

Utah’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) sets the state’s licensing requirements for psychologists. Currently, individuals who are to work in full capacities as psychologists in Utah must have a doctorate.

Those working as assistants and technicians may not necessarily need a doctorate and may utilize a master’s degree to start their careers.

Doctorate holders still gaining real-world experience in a postdoctoral environment may work with a “Certified Psychology Residents” license.

Another consideration is the experience requirements. Candidates are expected to complement pre-doctoral experience with post-doctoral experience.

The state mandates at least 4,000 hours of training “on the job.” However, it does not specify what portion of this should be obtained at the pre-doctoral level or at the post-doctoral level.

Finally, candidates must pass relevant examinations to become licensed psychologists in Utah, including the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and the Utah Psychologist Law and Ethics Examination.

Salary & Career Outlook

At the very least, psychologists in Utah can expect to make an annual average salary of $61,211 regardless of where they start their careers. A survey of professionals in the state revealed this figure as relevant to those among the lowest-paid.

On the opposite end of the salary spectrum, Utah psychologists who are among the highest-paid top 10% can make an average salary of around $140,508 per year or even more. Those in the middle among the median earners can expect an annual average salary of $92,739.

Naturally, experience is one of the major factors responsible for helping candidates move from the lower end of the salary spectrum to the higher end. However, other conditions, such as specialty area, credentials, and location, also play huge roles.

The highest-paying destinations for candidates to become psychologists in Utah include Saint George, with an annual average salary of $271,884, and Ogden, with an annual average salary of $205,352. Psychologists in Salt Lake City make an annual average salary of $163,998.

Job Outlook

As more people become aware of the importance of speaking to someone to facilitate positive mental health, the demand for psychologists in various capacities will increase. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts nothing less than a 7% increase in employment for psychologists across various specialties.

Some sub-disciplines within the field are set to experience growth as high as 14%—significantly higher than the 4% average for other occupations. Also, as more psychologists retire in the next decade, openings will arise for fresh candidates to replace them.