collageSelecting a university is an important decision that will help prepare you to live your dreams. If you are planning to attend college in Florida, looking into Best Universities in Florida for Psychology, university of central florida & university of south florida and top 5 universities for psychology is a smart idea! Each of these universities offer academic excellence, high employment rates, and the opportunity for future doctors, professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs to take their careers to the next level.
Do you want to learn about the latest findings best psychology schools in florida? Get ready! Find out all the information you need right here on Collegelearners.com so you don’t have to go looking again. Find all the specifics you need, such as best psychology graduate programs in florida, university of florida psychology ranking & best universities for psychology in usa.
Why Attend Psychology Colleges and Programs in Florida?
With over 50 colleges for psychology in Florida, prospective students of all kinds can find a school that meets their academic needs. State residents enjoy a low 3.2% unemployment rate, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an above-average job growth rate of 20-22%.
Students attending Florida colleges for psychology meet state educational requirements for licensure. They can also begin building a professional network through internships, volunteerism, and membership in professional associations.
In addition, Florida offers quality higher education opportunities at an affordable price. The state ranks first in higher education on the annual U.S. News & World Report best state rankings. Florida boasts the second-lowest in-state tuition costs, with the annual state average of $6,350 falling far below the national average of $10,440. Students graduate with an average of $24,041 in student debt, the eighth-lowest figure in the nation. Florida also ranks second in two-year college graduation rates and eighth for four-year college graduates.
What to Expect in a Florida Psychology College Program
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Florida colleges and universities conferred 2,262 psychology degrees in 2018. This number represents associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates from more than 50 colleges offering psychology programs across the state.
Many community colleges offer two-year associate degrees in psychology, which typically include general education coursework. Accredited schools often maintain articulation agreements with colleges and universities offering four-year bachelor’s degrees, allowing associate degree-holders to transfer in as juniors and complete their advanced coursework in two years.
A bachelor’s degree may offer the chance to choose a specialization, such as clinical or educational psychology. However, most students delve more deeply into a specialty during graduate study. Master’s programs generally require 2-3 years to complete and may include an internship component.
Doctoral programs offer students the chance to perform independent research and fieldwork in their chosen discipline. Prospective doctoral candidates should ensure that a program’s curriculum and format align with their focus area.
What’s the Difference between a BA and a BS in Psychology?
As with bachelor’s degrees in any field, a Bachelor of Science requires more science-focused general education classes, and a Bachelor of Arts has more liberal-arts general education requirements. Both degrees provide an education in psychology that serves as a basis for graduate study or to enter the job market directly.
What Can you Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?
Psychology is a popular undergraduate degree (the fourth most common in the U.S., according to the American Psychological Association), and many graduates use their understanding of the human mind in fields not directly related to psychology. Careers in psychology usually require graduate study. From there, students can work in jobs such as counseling, mental health therapy, and psychiatry.
We’ve compiled a list of schools with the best bachelor’s degrees in psychology. We ranked these colleges based on their tuition (lowest is best) and teacher-student ratio (lowest is best).
What Courses Are Part of an Online Psychology Degree Program in Florida?
Course catalogs vary between schools and often depend on faculty interests and research. However, the best psychology schools in Florida offer a rich selection of elective courses. Electives help undergraduate students evaluate different specializations within psychology and how those concentrations assist and inform other disciplines. At the graduate level, elective courses allow students to perform fieldwork and research in their focus areas.COLLAPSE ALLEXPAND ALL
Analysis of Psychological Data
Psychological research often includes large sets of qualitative and quantitative data. In this undergraduate course, candidates explore the statistical analysis and organizational methods used to develop and test hypotheses. Students learn to select statistical methods for various purposes as they examine descriptive and inferential statistics.
Perception, Memory, and Thought
This undergraduate course introduces theories in cognitive psychology, examining the mental functions behind basic behaviors involving speech, memory, attention, and problem solving. Learners evaluate various methods developed to help patients cope with cognitive disorders, such as dementia or traumatic brain injury.
Human Development
Learning Processes in Education
Culture and Psychology
Best Psychology Graduate Programs in Florida
| SCHOOL NAME | CITY, STATE | STUDENT POPULATION | SCHOOL TYPE | TUITION | PROGRAM TYPE | PROGRAMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argosy University-Sarasota | Sarasota, FL | 1,121 | Private (For Profit) | In-state: $13,464 Out-of-state: $13,464 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 7 PROGRAMS |
| Argosy University-Tampa | Tampa, FL | 765 | Private (For Profit) | In-state: $13,464 Out-of-state: $13,464 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 4 PROGRAMS |
| Ave Maria University | Ave Maria, FL | 1,028 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $17,196 Out-of-state: $17,196 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Barry University | Miami, FL | 10,601 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $28,160 Out-of-state: $28,160 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 13 PROGRAMS |
| Beacon College | Leesburg, FL | 203 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $31,916 Out-of-state: $31,916 | Campus | VIEW 2 PROGRAMS |
| Bethune-Cookman University | Daytona Beach, FL | 3,959 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $13,440 Out-of-state: $13,440 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Carlos Albizu University-Miami | Miami, FL | 1,229 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $11,484 Out-of-state: $11,484 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 5 PROGRAMS |
| Clearwater Christian College | Clearwater, FL | 557 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $17,700 Out-of-state: $17,700 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Eckerd College | Saint Petersburg, FL | 2,627 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $38,342 Out-of-state: $38,342 | Campus | VIEW 2 PROGRAMS |
| Edward Waters College | Jacksonville, FL | 984 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $12,325 Out-of-state: $12,325 | Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Daytona Beach, FL | 5,785 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $30,720 Out-of-state: $30,720 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 3 PROGRAMS |
| Flagler College-St Augustine | Saint Augustine, FL | 2,896 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $16,180 Out-of-state: $16,180 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Tallahassee, FL | 12,002 | Public | In-state: $3,152 Out-of-state: $14,524 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 3 PROGRAMS |
| Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | 37,488 | Public | In-state: $2,522 Out-of-state: $14,374 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 5 PROGRAMS |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers, FL | 15,887 | Public | In-state: $4,191 Out-of-state: $22,328 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne, FL | 6,822 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $37,240 Out-of-state: $37,240 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 8 PROGRAMS |
| Florida Institute of Technology-Online | Melbourne, FL | 6,550 | Private (Non Profit) | Online | VIEW 2 PROGRAMS | |
| Florida International University | Miami, FL | 65,128 | Public | In-state: $4,721 Out-of-state: $16,529 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 4 PROGRAMS |
| Florida Memorial University | Miami Gardens, FL | 1,805 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $12,384 Out-of-state: $12,384 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
| Florida Southern College | Lakeland, FL | 2,881 | Private (Non Profit) | In-state: $29,340 Out-of-state: $29,340 | Both Online and Campus | VIEW 1 PROGRAM |
Education Requirements to Become a Psychologist in Florida
Becoming a psychologist in Florida often requires 12 or more years of education and training. Most psychologists begin their education with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. These four-year programs typically combine general education courses in English, math, science, and history with foundational coursework in behavioral science and scientific research methods. Many undergraduates use elective coursework to explore specializations within psychology, or interdisciplinary connections with other fields, such as criminology, education, and business.
The next step usually involves earning a graduate degree in psychology. Graduate studies allow candidates to dig deeper into specialized areas of psychology. Many master’s programs also offer experiential learning opportunities, during which students apply what they’ve learned to a practical setting. These experiences may include short, clinical rotations during a course or longer internships for graduate credit. Most master’s programs in psychology require 2-3 years to complete.
Florida requires licensed psychologists to complete a doctorate in psychology from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). These programs require 5-7 years of study and often culminate in a written dissertation. Many of the best colleges in Florida for psychology offer both a Ph.D. in psychology and a doctorate of psychology, or Psy.D. The Ph.D. focuses on research, while the Psy.D. emphasizes clinical applications of psychological theory. Doctoral programs typically include an internship component, and candidates can often tailor their coursework and internships to their chosen specialty.
Florida Licensing for Psychologists
Florida law requires psychologists to obtain state licensure before assessing, diagnosing, or treating patients for behavioral disorders or mental health conditions. The best psychology schools in Florida provide students with the rigorous hands-on training needed to pass state licensing exams. The Florida Board of Psychology ensures licensed psychologists follow professional and ethical standards and complete ongoing professional development courses.
WHY GET LICENSED IN FLORIDA?
Licensed psychologists may administer psychological tests and use the results to diagnose mental illness or cognitive disabilities. Florida also allows licensed psychologists to work directly with patients to provide mental health counseling. Licensed or certified educational psychologists are permitted to work with students who need special education services. A psychology degree also qualifies candidates for other mental health positions, such as mental health counselor, family therapist, or clinical social worker.
LICENSING CRITERIA FOR FLORIDA
The Florida Board of Psychology licenses psychologists to practice in the state. Mental health professionals often serve vulnerable individuals, and the board ensures that providers meet the highest standards for patient safety.
Most new psychology graduates pursue licensure by examination, while practitioners from other states who wish to practice in Florida typically seek licensure by endorsement. Out-of-state providers may also apply for permission to offer telehealth services to Florida residents. New applicants must hold an APA-accredited doctorate in psychology and complete 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised practice before passing rigorous professional exams.
School psychologists may seek licensing through the Board of Psychology or certification from the Florida Department of Education. School psychologists must hold a graduate degree or higher in school psychology, complete an internship, and pass Florida educator exams. Certified school psychologists may only practice within school systems.
HOW TO GET LICENSED IN FLORIDA
After completing an APA accredited psychology program, graduates must spend 4,000 hours providing direct patient services in a clinical setting. Applicants may fulfill this requirement with up to 2,000 hours from a doctoral internship and complete the remaining work hours in a postdoctoral clinical program. Candidates conduct patient assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling services under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Florida’s licensing process begins with an application to the Florida Board of Psychology. This agency reviews educational transcripts and supervised practice records before conducting background checks on all applicants. Candidates must also pay a $200 application fee, a $100 initial licensure fee, and a $5 unlicensed activity fee.
Qualifying applicants then receive authorization to take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Florida must approve licensees to sit for the exam, which costs $688 and includes 225 multiple-choice questions. Applicants must earn a scaled score of at least 500 on the EPPP and pass the Board of Psychology’s Florida Laws and Rules Exam.
LICENSE RENEWAL IN FLORIDA
A Florida psychology license remains valid until May 31 of every even year. Psychologists must apply to renew their license before it expires. Candidates for renewal must pay a $300 fee and provide proof of completing 40 hours of continuing education during the prior two-year period. The state charges $700-$1,000 for late renewals.
Florida’s continuing education requirements include 35 hours of general professional education, two hours related to medical errors, and three hours pertaining to ethics and state laws. New psychologists who have not been licensed for at least two years need only complete two hours of medical errors training for their first renewal cycle.
Florida Psychologist Salaries and Employment Trends
According to the BLS, Florida clinical, counseling, and school psychologists earn an average annual salary of $76,190, with practitioners in the bottom 10th percentile earning $39,440 up to more than $123,580 for top wage earners in other fields. While lower than the national average of $85,340, Florida professionals still out-earn psychologists in neighboring Alabama. Florida psychologists in other specialty areas earn an annual mean wage of $96,640, which is higher than the national average of $95,610.
All types of psychologists are projected to see strong job growth throughout the state. While the BLS projects a national 14% growth rate for all psychology jobs, those in clinical, counseling, and school psychology in Florida should see a 20% job growth rate, along with a 20% growth rate for all other psychologists and 21% for postsecondary psychology teachers. Florida’s job growth projections also outpace surrounding states, including Alabama and Georgia.
Florida is one of the nation’s top employers for professionals in the “all other psychologists” category. Top hiring industries include government, private health practices, and colleges and universities, while clinical, counseling, and school psychologists often find work in elementary and secondary schools, health practices, and individual and family services.
| 2016 | 2017 | |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists in Florida | $74,670 | $75,870 |
| Psychologists, All Other in Florida | $91,920 | $97,210 |
| Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists Nationally | $78,690 | $81,330 |
| Psychologists, All Other Nationally | $94,650 | $93,440 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Mean Wage For Psychologists In Florida and Nearby States (2018)
- NATIONALLYClinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: $85,340 Psychologists, All Other: $95,610
- FLORIDAClinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: $76,190 Psychologists, All Other: $96,640
- ALABAMAClinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: $69,070 Psychologists, All Other: $90,050
- GEORGIAClinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: $89,190 Psychologists, All Other: $95,940
- MISSISSIPPIClinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: $67,570 Psychologists, All Other: $81,610
Source: BLS
| CLINICAL, COUNSELING, AND SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS | PSYCHOLOGISTS, ALL OTHER | |
|---|---|---|
| Nationally | 14.2% | 10.3% |
| Florida | 19.9% | 21.1% |
| Alabama | 12.80% | N/A |
| Georgia | 17.40% | 9.50% |
| Mississippi | N/A | 14.30% |
Psychology Resources for Florida
- Florida Psychological AssociationA state affiliate of the APA, this organization provides members with networking events, continuing education programs, and legislative advocacy opportunities. The organization represents more than 1,500 practicing psychologists from all specialties across the state.
- Florida Association of School PsychologistsThis association encourages school psychologists to share and compare their experiences and methodologies related to educational and psychological assessment. Early-career psychologists, retirees, and students enjoy special membership rates.
- Mental Health FloridaThe Florida Psychological Association disseminates information about mental health services in the state. Website visitors can verify licensure, access emergency intervention for clients, and explore relevant blog posts.
- Florida Board of PsychologyThis state agency administers psychologist licensure and license renewal. The board also responds to complaints regarding ethical standards and provides approved continuing education resources.
- Florida Suicide Prevention CoalitionThis organization unites mental health providers, clients, and concerned citizens under the shared goal of suicide prevention. This nonprofit group sponsors an annual conference, educational sessions, and suicide prevention initiatives in communities and schools.
Psychology Colleges in Florida
General Psychology is a popular major and Florida is the 4th most popular state for students studying this major. 7,009 of the 131,061 General Psychology diplomas earned last year were given by colleges in Florida. With so many options it can be difficult finding the right fit. This year’s Best Colleges for General Psychology in Florida ranking analyzed 23 colleges and universities that offer a bachelor’s degree in general psychology. We look at over 20 factors to determine the top 3 schools for General Psychology students in Florida.
Learn about the top ranked colleges and universities for general psychology majors.
Top 10 Best Psychology Colleges in Florida
#1
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4thMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$25,000MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
University of Florida is among your best bets if you want to study general psychology. Located in the midsize city Gainesville, U of F is a public college with a very large student population. This college ranks 2nd out of 61 schools for overall quality in the state of Florida.
There are approximately 547 general psychology undergraduates enrolled in this program at U of F. Soon after graduating, psychology students usually earn an average of $25,000 in the first five years of their career.More…Request Information
#2
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL8thMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$21,900MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Every student pursuing a degree in general psychology needs to check out University of Miami. U Miami is a large private not-for-profit school located in the suburb of Coral Gables. A Best Colleges rank of 66 out of 1,727 schools nationwide means U Miami is a great college overall.
With 184 students enrolled, University of Miami is one of most popular schools to study psychology in Florida. Students who complete this degree state that they receive average early career earnings of $21,900.More…Request Information
#3
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL3rdMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$27,500MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Florida State University is a wonderful choice for individuals pursuing a General Psychology degree. Located in the city Tallahassee, Florida State is a public college with a fairly large student population. This college ranks 3rd out of 61 colleges for overall quality in the state of Florida.
There are roughly 757 general psychology undergraduates studying this degree at Florida State. Florida State University general psychology graduates make $2,070 more than the standard psychology grad.More…Request Information
#4
Florida International University
Miami, FL1stMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$26,000MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Any student pursuing a degree in general psychology has to look into Florida International University. FIU is a fairly large public school located in the large suburb of Miami. This school ranks 13th out of 61 colleges for overall quality in the state of Florida.
There are roughly 1406 general psychology undergrads studying this degree at FIU. Students who graduate from this program state that they receive average early career wages of $26,000.More…Request Information
#5
University of South Florida – Main Campus
Tampa, FL5thMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$28,000MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Located in the city Tampa, USF Tampa is a public school with a very large student population. This college ranks 6th out of 61 schools for overall quality in the state of Florida.
A popular choice for general psychology undergraduates, there are roughly 521 learners studying this degree at USF Tampa. General Psychology graduates from University of South Florida – Main Campus get a earnings boost of about $2,570 over the typical income of general psychology majors.More…Request Information
#6
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL2ndMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$27,800MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Located in the suburb Orlando, UCF is a public school with a fairly large student population. This school ranks 7th out of 61 colleges for overall quality in the state of Florida.
There are approximately 1166 general psychology undergraduates studying this degree at UCF. Students from the general psychology program at University of Central Florida make $2,370 more than the typical college graduate in this field when they enter the workforce.More…Request Information
#7
Rollins College
Winter Park, FL20thMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$29,700MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Located in the suburb Winter Park, Rollins is a private not-for-profit college with a small student population. This college ranks 4th out of 61 schools for overall quality in the state of Florida.
With 59 undergrads, Rollins College is one of most popular schools to study psychology in Florida. Graduates from the general psychology program at Rollins College get $4,270 more than the average graduate with the same degree shortly after graduation.More…Request Information
#8
Eckerd College
Saint Petersburg, FL23rdMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$23,800MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Eckerd is a small private not-for-profit school located in the city of Saint Petersburg. This college ranks 11th out of 61 schools for overall quality in the state of Florida.
With 45 undergraduates, Eckerd College is one of most popular colleges to study psychology in Florida. After graduation, psychology students usually make around $23,800 at the beginning of their careers.More…Request Information
#9
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL13thMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$23,100MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Located in the suburb Fort Lauderdale, Nova Southeastern University is a private not-for-profit college with a fairly large student population. This school ranks 8th out of 61 colleges for overall quality in the state of Florida.
A popular major for general psychology undergraduates, there are roughly 86 individuals enrolled in this program at Nova Southeastern University. Students who graduate from the psychology program make about $23,100 in the first couple years of their career.More…Request Information
#10
Stetson University
DeLand, FL21stMOST POPULAR IN FL4.2%GROWTH IN GRADUATES$23,400MEDIAN STARTING SALARY
Located in the suburb DeLand, Stetson is a private not-for-profit college with a small student population. This college ranks 12th out of 61 colleges for overall quality in the state of Florida.
With 56 undergraduates, Stetson University is one of most popular colleges to study psychology in Florida. After graduating, psychology students typically make an average of $23,400 in the first five years of their career].
Best General Psychology Colleges in the Southeast Region
Explore all the Best General Psychology Colleges in the Southeast Area or other specific states within that region.
| State | Colleges | Degrees Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 300 | 3,142 |
| Virginia | 289 | 4,877 |
| North Carolina | 286 | 3,745 |
| Tennessee | 266 | 2,031 |
| Kentucky | 257 | 1,273 |
| South Carolina | 254 | 1,250 |
| Louisiana | 254 | 1,383 |
| Alabama | 250 | 1,439 |
| Arkansas | 249 | 877 |
| Mississippi | 239 | 964 |
| West Virginia | 222 | 992 |
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