What is Psychology?


If you're interested in mental health or social services, a psychology degree in Texas could be the perfect path. Many colleges and universities in the state offer accredited programs. Psychology is a versatile major for those wanting to study human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotions. The curriculum typically focuses on understanding how people think, feel, and interact, while also building essential research skills.

As a psychologist, you'll study human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors through cognitive, emotional, and social processes. Psychologists use methods like controlled experiments, psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis to gather data. They may administer personality, intelligence, or performance tests to identify patterns and understand mental and environmental factors. The insights gained can improve treatment processes and outcomes.

Psychologists in Texas handle a variety of tasks based on their specialization, including developing treatment plans, diagnosing emotional patterns, conducting behavioral studies, and collaborating with other mental health professionals. They also write research papers, supervise interns, and mentor counseling professionals. With advanced training, psychologists can work in roles ranging from clinical practice to academic research, making a significant impact on mental health and well-being.

Pursuing a psychology career in Texas can offer a rewarding path, with numerous opportunities to contribute to the field of mental health while enjoying the benefits of working in a growing and supportive environment.

Featured Online Programs

Top Ranked Campus & Online Psychology Programs in Texas


1

Rice University

Score: 93.47

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $58,128
    • Out-of-State:$58,128
  • Net Price: $19,902
  • Acceptance Rate: 9%
  • Retention Rate: 98%
  • Graduation Rate: 94%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,672
  • Undergrad Students: 4,494
  • Graduate Students: 4,178
  • Grads Salary: $92,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 6:1
  • Rice University
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,678
    • Out-of-State:$42,778
  • Net Price: $17,434
  • Acceptance Rate: 31%
  • Retention Rate: 95%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 52,384
  • Undergrad Students: 41,309
  • Graduate Students: 11,075
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • The University of Texas at Austin
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3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,099
    • Out-of-State:$40,328
  • Net Price: $20,375
  • Acceptance Rate: 63%
  • Retention Rate: 95%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 74,014
  • Undergrad Students: 57,512
  • Graduate Students: 16,502
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Texas A&M University-College Station
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4

Trinity University

Score: 76.32

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,352
    • Out-of-State:$51,352
  • Net Price: $30,038
  • Acceptance Rate: 31%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,692
  • Undergrad Students: 2,512
  • Graduate Students: 180
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Trinity University
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5

LeTourneau University

Score: 76.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,500
    • Out-of-State:$35,500
  • Net Price: $26,974
  • Acceptance Rate: 49%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,536
  • Undergrad Students: 3,350
  • Graduate Students: 186
  • Grads Salary: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • LeTourneau University
6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,564
    • Out-of-State:$40,064
  • Net Price: $13,555
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 87%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,570
  • Undergrad Students: 21,617
  • Graduate Students: 9,953
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • The University of Texas at Dallas
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7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,846
    • Out-of-State:$19,382
  • Net Price: $5,383
  • Acceptance Rate: 48%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,505
  • Undergrad Students: 6,979
  • Graduate Students: 1,526
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Texas A&M International University
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8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $64,460
    • Out-of-State:$64,460
  • Net Price: $45,094
  • Acceptance Rate: 52%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 82%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,053
  • Undergrad Students: 7,056
  • Graduate Students: 4,997
  • Grads Salary: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Southern Methodist University
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9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,711
    • Out-of-State:$22,191
  • Net Price: $14,056
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 46,700
  • Undergrad Students: 37,943
  • Graduate Students: 8,757
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • University of Houston
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10

Austin College

Score: 71.97

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $46,500
    • Out-of-State:$46,500
  • Net Price: $24,739
  • Acceptance Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,182
  • Undergrad Students: 1,167
  • Graduate Students: 15
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Austin College
11
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,026
    • Out-of-State:$22,626
  • Net Price: $13,025
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,306
  • Undergrad Students: 7,383
  • Graduate Students: 3,923
  • Grads Salary: $91,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Texas A&M University-Commerce
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12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $57,220
    • Out-of-State:$57,220
  • Net Price: $44,190
  • Acceptance Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,273
  • Undergrad Students: 10,523
  • Graduate Students: 1,750
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Texas Christian University
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13

University of Dallas

Score: 71.45

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $50,880
    • Out-of-State:$50,880
  • Net Price: $27,250
  • Acceptance Rate: 59%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,328
  • Undergrad Students: 1,453
  • Graduate Students: 875
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • University of Dallas
14
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,058
    • Out-of-State:$51,058
  • Net Price: $31,014
  • Acceptance Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,483
  • Undergrad Students: 1,483
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Southwestern University
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15
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $33,660
    • Out-of-State:$33,660
  • Net Price: $19,207
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,588
  • Undergrad Students: 2,646
  • Graduate Students: 942
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • University of St. Thomas-Houston
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16
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,728
    • Out-of-State:$29,660
  • Net Price: $14,262
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 43,946
  • Undergrad Students: 30,791
  • Graduate Students: 13,155
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • The University of Texas at Arlington
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17
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,746
    • Out-of-State:$21,330
  • Net Price: $17,871
  • Acceptance Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,562
  • Undergrad Students: 6,352
  • Graduate Students: 2,210
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • University of Houston-Clear Lake
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18

Texas A&M University-Texarkana

Score: 69.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,930
    • Out-of-State:$20,947
  • Net Price: $10,646
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 30%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,110
  • Undergrad Students: 1,761
  • Graduate Students: 349
  • Grads Salary: $90,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Texas A&M University-Texarkana
19

University of North Texas at Dallas

Score: 69.28

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,590
    • Out-of-State:$22,189
  • Net Price: $10,351
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,685
  • Undergrad Students: 3,001
  • Graduate Students: 684
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • University of North Texas at Dallas
20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,627
    • Out-of-State:$16,419
  • Net Price: $5,465
  • Acceptance Rate: 96%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 40%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,198
  • Undergrad Students: 1,712
  • Graduate Students: 486
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Texas A&M University-Central Texas
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21
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,299
    • Out-of-State:$26,874
  • Net Price: $12,875
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,056
  • Undergrad Students: 8,103
  • Graduate Students: 953
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Prairie View A&M University
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22

Baylor University

Score: 68.15

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $54,844
    • Out-of-State:$54,844
  • Net Price: $45,988
  • Acceptance Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 81%
  • Total Enrollment: 20,709
  • Undergrad Students: 15,213
  • Graduate Students: 5,496
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Baylor University
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23
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,310
    • Out-of-State:$12,260
  • Net Price: $11,361
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,784
  • Undergrad Students: 4,818
  • Graduate Students: 966
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Midwestern State University
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24

St. Mary's University

Score: 67.4

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,242
    • Out-of-State:$36,242
  • Net Price: $21,379
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,253
  • Undergrad Students: 2,001
  • Graduate Students: 1,252
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • St. Mary's University
25
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,450
    • Out-of-State:$23,210
  • Net Price: $14,120
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 38,171
  • Undergrad Students: 33,834
  • Graduate Students: 4,337
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Texas State University
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Online Psychology Education in Texas


According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologist employment is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, with about 14,100 job openings annually. This growth is driven by the need to replace workers or retirements. Demand for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is rising, particularly in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies, as awareness of mental health's impact on learning increases. Additionally, the demand for industrial-organizational psychologists will grow as companies seek help with employee selection, training, and morale improvement.

Not all psychology graduates become psychologists. Some pursue careers in community and social services. While psychologist employment is expected to grow at an average rate, community and social service professions are projected to grow by 10% by 2031. Specific roles, such as substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, are expected to grow by 22%, while marriage and family therapists will see a 14% increase in employment.

In Texas, educational services, healthcare, and social assistance generate $123 billion annually, making it the sixth largest industry. As of May 2021, Texas employed 6,690 school psychologists and 3,170 clinical and counseling psychologists, with 840 psychology workers unclassified. Annual mean wages for these professionals ranged from $71,080 to $101,680, significantly higher than the state's average wage of $54,230. Additionally, Texas had 135,570 community and social service professionals, ranking as the third-largest employer in this field.

Texas offers many well-known colleges and universities that provide psychology degrees, with both on-campus and online options available. While online learning offers flexibility, students planning to work in Texas may benefit from attending local institutions familiar with the state's certification and licensing requirements. Graduates from these schools are often better prepared to meet state qualifications and understand local employer expectations. Additionally, Texas colleges often build relationships with nearby organizations, making it easier for students to secure internships and professional opportunities.

Texas offers many academic opportunities for students interested in psychology, with programs available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. However, undergraduate degrees may not meet the qualifications for all psychologist positions, especially for those seeking licensure in Texas.

Find Your Online Psychology Program


Online Associates (AS)

Online associate degrees in psychology typically require 60 credit hours and can be completed in about two years. These programs combine general liberal arts and psychology courses, covering topics like child psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and aging. While this degree does not qualify graduates for licensure as a psychologist in Texas, it may lead to entry-level roles such as psychiatric technicians or social and human services assistants.

Those with an associate degree in psychology can pursue a bachelor’s program, often transferring up to 60 or 90 credits from accredited institutions. This typically allows students to enter as juniors, requiring only two more years of study to complete their degree.

National online rankings - associate in psychology

Online Bachelors (BS)

An online bachelor’s degree in psychology typically requires 120 credit hours and takes about four years for full-time students to complete. The curriculum includes a mix of liberal arts and psychology courses, covering topics like social psychology, biological psychology, sensation and perception, criminal psychology, and addiction theories, along with lab work.

Additionally, many colleges and universities offer concentrations in related sub-fields, such as:

  • Addiction Counseling
  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive and Perceptual Psychology
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Engineering Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • General Psychology
  • Organizational Psychology
  • Research / Experimental Psychology

This degree alone doesn't qualify you to become a licensed psychologist or psychologist associate in Texas. However, if accredited by the APA or NASP, it may help qualify you for licensure as a school psychology specialist. Graduates may also find work in business, management, or social services.

Graduates can pursue a master's degree, especially if they plan to become licensed psychologists. Undergraduate credits don't transfer to graduate schools, and students must meet minimum GPA and GRE score requirements set by the institution.

National online rankings - bachelors in psychology

Online Masters (MS)

Master’s degrees in psychology typically require 30 to 60 credit hours, taking about two years to complete. While undergraduate credits don't transfer, some schools may require specific prerequisite courses. The curriculum focuses solely on psychology topics like social psychology, developmental psychology, research methods, cognitive processes, and personality theory. Students may also engage in practicums, clinical work, and research.

At this level, it’s also common for colleges and universities to offer opportunities to specialize in relevant sub-fields.

Some of the most common concentrations include:

  • Educational Psychology
  • Research
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • School Psychology

This type of degree is not sufficient to become a licensed psychologist in Texas. Assuming all other requirements are met, however, it can lead to the licensed psychological associate and licensed specialists in school psychology credentials. Graduates may also find employment in business and management or community and social services occupations.

National online rankings - masters in psychology

Online Doctorate (PhD)

Doctoral degrees in psychology require 60 to 90 credit hours, taking about five to seven years to complete. The first few years focus on courses like behavioral assessments, professional ethics, research methods, and neuroscience. After meeting instructional requirements, students conduct independent research on a specific topic and must defend their dissertation before a board of professors before graduating.

There are two common doctoral degrees available: doctor of psychology (PsyD) and doctor of philosophy (PhD) in psychology. A doctorate in psychology is the most optimal option for those interested in clinical work, while the doctorate in philosophy is more appropriate for professionals interested in research.

This type of degree is sufficient to become a licensed psychologist, licensed psychologist associate, and licensed specialist in school psychology in Texas. Additionally, graduates can often pursue employment in research and higher education.

Learn more about psychology resources and scholarships Our psychology certifications guide

Become a Psychology Professional in Texas


The first step to becoming a psychology professional in Texas is identifying your ultimate career goals. Determining what kind of psychologist you want to become, or whether you would prefer to pursue a community and social service occupation instead, is essential. Once you know your preferred profession, you will know how much higher education is necessary and it will become much easier to find appropriate academic program(s). It also helps you know what kind of additional knowledge, training, practicums, and licensing is required.

Notably, practicing psychologists must be licensed in Texas. This process is overseen by the Texas Behavioral Health and Executive Council of Psychologists. This council establishes the qualifications for licensure and renewal, as well as the ethical standards for the state.

There are three types of licenses available:

  • Licensed Psychologist
  • Licensed Psychological Associate
  • Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Licensure requirements vary by credential. To become a licensed psychologist, candidates need a doctoral degree, 1,750 hours of supervised internship experience, and 1,750 post-doctoral hours. They must also pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and the Jurisprudence Examination.

Licensed psychological associates, on the other hand, need a graduate degree with at least 60 credit hours and must pass the same exams. Those seeking independent practice must complete 3,000 post-graduate hours and gain approval from the Texas Behavioral Health and Executive Council.

To become a licensed specialist in school psychology, candidates must complete an APA or NASP-accredited school psychology program or a graduate degree in psychology with required coursework. They must also complete a 1,200-hour internship, with 600 hours in public schools, and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and the Jurisprudence Examination.

Potential Careers for Psychology Graduates


Earning a degree in psychology opens many doors. Graduates at every level will qualify for a wide variety of related careers in Rhode Island.

While responsibilities and salaries will vary, some of the most common professions available include the following.

  • Clinical Social Worker
    Clinical social workers provide therapy-based services to patients who need mental and/or emotional support. Often working in hospitals, mental health clinics, residential nursing facilities, home healthcare companies, or substance abuse treatment centers, these professionals conduct psychosocial evaluations and develop personalized care interactions. They may also negotiate with third party groups when further assistance is required. According to PayScale, clinical social workers make an average base salary of $57,600 per year.
  • Marriage and Family Therapist
    Marriage and family therapists help people manage problems with their families and other personal relationships. These professionals often encourage clients to discuss their emotions and process their reactions. They typically work to help others develop strategies and skills to change negative behaviors and better cope with difficult situations. According to PayScale, marriage and family therapists make an average base salary of $59,150 per year.
  • Mental Health Counselor
    Mental health counselors diagnose and treat people who suffer from mental health problems and illnesses. They utilize various strategies and techniques to help their patients. While most of these professionals have the knowledge and skills to address most conditions, some choose to specialize in a particular area of care such as eating disorders, addiction, and young adult development. According to PayScale, mental health counselors make an average base salary of $44,250 per year.
  • Psychiatric Technician
    Psychiatric technicians aid people who have mental illness and developmental disabilities. These professionals typically provide therapeutic care, assist with daily activities, and ensure environments are safe and clean. They also observe patient behavior, give medications, monitor vital signs, and apply restraints when necessary. According to PayScale, psychiatric technicians make an average base salary of $45,000 per year.
  • Psychiatrist
    Psychiatrists evaluate patient symptoms, behaviors, and past medical histories to determine whether or not they have mental disorders. They then use various techniques and/or medications to treat patients after they find a diagnosis. These professionals also often perform consultations for other healthcare professionals. According to PayScale, psychiatrists make an average base salary of $215,600 per year.
  • Substance Abuse/Addiction Counselor
    Substance abuse and addiction counselors provide counseling and support to people diagnosed with alcohol and/or drug addictions. These professionals are often responsible for creating treatment plans, implementing various therapies, evaluating patient progress, and maintaining accurate documentation of care. They are also likely to conduct group and one-on-one counseling sessions with patients. According to PayScale, substance abuse and addiction counselors make an average base salary of $39,950 per year.
  • Learn About All Psychology Careers

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