Research Campus-Based and Online Psychology Degrees in Illinois

Settled in the Midwestern United States, Illinois is a known for its glorious rolling hills and wetlands. Home to the populous city of Chicago, Illinois is an excellent choice for psychology majors. In recent years, Illinois’ population has grown to a buxom 12.8 million.

The Psychology Education Landscape in Illinois

There are over 50 different psychology programs at campuses across Illinois, including several online options, particularly at the graduate level. Generally speaking, the online Masters in Psychology is the most popular for working adults that is available in a 100% online format.

There are a total of 4,210 clinical-related employees in this state, indicating a possible need for even more in the future. Psychology is a field that has always withstood the test of time. It has found itself being involved with nearly every walk of life.

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University	Program	Admissions
University of West Alabama	Online Bachelor of Psychology	Learn More
George Mason University	Online MS in Applied I/O Psychology	Learn More
Rivier University	Online BA in Psychology	Learn More
University of West Alabama	Online MS in Experimental Psychology / Clinical Psychology	Learn More
Simmons University	Masters in Behavior Analysis	Learn More

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Scroll down for the full list of schools offering a psychology degree in Illinois (on campus or online).

Online Psychology Degrees at Illinois Schools

Eastern Illinois University: Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

EIU's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology can provide learners with an intriguing first look at the field of Psychology and its many subfields. Through 4 years of intensive studies in both general education courses and major-focused Psychology courses, students can gain insight relevant to pursuing entry-level positions in the field or pursuing higher level degree programs in Psychology in the future.

This program offers a completely online curriculum that allows learners to enjoy the benefits of learning from home and learning at their own pace. Instructors for this program teach both in-person and online classes - with courses being offered in both asynchronous and synchronous format.

Courses included in this undergraduate program include those focused on Abnormal Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Behavioral Science. As you move through this program you can achieve expertise in early childhood psychological development, as well as insight into common psychological issues such as substance abuse and addiction.

The Adler School of Professional Psychology Has Multiple Psychology or Therapy Degrees

The Adler School of Professional Psychology is a graduate school that places emphasis on the importance of hard work. This school is an excellent choice for individuals interested in either clinical careers or therapy and counseling.

Adler School provides classes that are specific to each degree program, leaving out unnecessary courses of filler classes. Training is given both in a classroom setting as well as providing useful field work. Working one on one under the instruction of qualified teachers gives students a better representation of what is expected of them in the field. Students will find that the degree they receive from this university will broaden their potential for success in the field of psychology.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Illinois

1. Becoming a psychologist in the state of Illinois requires that applicants meet all of the licensing components outlined by the state licensing board. The first step along this path includes completing bachelor's and master's degree requirements for future entry into an accredited doctoral degree program. Most learners choose degree programs focusing specifically on psychology, while others may choose other mental health specializations during these early degree options.
2. The next step towards becoming a professional psychologist is receiving acceptance into an American Psychological Association - accredited Ph.D. or Psy.D. program in Psychology. You can find programs currently holding this accreditation through reviewing the APA website. A list of available and accredited programs are provided along with a search filter to view programs available specifically in your state. Doctoral programs holding current accreditation should include experience opportunities within the later years of the program.
3. Illinois may also require that you complete around 1 year of clinical experience during your degree program but also an additional year after graduation. The state provides a specific outline of the experience expectations that are discussed in the next section. Your postdoctoral experience must be under the supervision of a current professional and licensed psychologist in your state. A contract outlining the length of supervision and expectations should be drafted before beginning this experience.
4. Psychologists within the state of Illinois are also required to submit to examination prior to receiving a full license to practice psychology. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a national examination that include concepts related to professional practice and is a major requirement for incoming psychologists all over the United States. Once you have passed this exam your state may authorize you to take their own state ethics examination as a final stage of the testing process.
5. The last step on your journey to becoming a licensed psychologist is filing your final application for licensure to the state of Illinois. At this point you should provide all documentation of transcripts, experience, and testing to the state for review. Once the state approves you as a psychologist you will receive notification in the mail and documentation of your license, CEU requirements, and expiration.a

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Psychology Degrees in Illinois

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Programs Currently Accepting Applicants

University of West Alabama

Online MS in Experimental Psychology / Clinical Psychology

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Simmons University

Masters in Behavior Analysis

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Saint Joseph's University

Online BLS in General Studies + Autism Studies

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Alvernia University

Online BS in Psychology

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Illinois Psychology Licensing

• Completing your Doctorate in Psychology is the first major step towards licensing in the state of Illinois. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation outlines specific steps to take on your journey to full licensing. Prior to beginning your post-doctoral experience component, the state first requires that you complete 1 year of internship, practicum, or residency during your degree program. This year of experience counts towards your total supervised field requirement of 2 years.
• After completing your degree program and 1 year of degree experience, you can then seek out a licensed supervisor to help guide you during your post-doctoral experience. The state of Illinois requires that you finish 1 year of post-doctoral supervised experience under a licensed psychologist in the field. Your supervisor may be required to maintain documentation pertaining to your hours earned and progress along the way.
• Completion of the experience component should be followed by an initial application for examination through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Along with your application you should submit proof of transcripts, experience, and degree. The initial fee for examination in Illinois is $50 in addition to any fees related to the examination requirements that follow your approval.
• Regardless of which state you reside in, licensing as a psychologist requires successful passing of the national licensing examination. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a multidimensional examination that includes components related to skillful practice, ethics, and experience tactics in the field. Once you have passed this test you should ensure that your results are submitted to the state in a timely manner.
• You should verify that the Board has received your results from the EPPP prior to submitting your final application for licensure to the state. The application for licensing is accompanied by an addition fee of $50, which is due at the time of processing. Once the Board has made a decision on your application with supporting documentation and test scores, you should receive notification of acceptance and your official license to practice within the state.
• In order to remain licensed in Illinois throughout the duration of your practice, you may be required to engage in and provide evidence of at least 24 hours of continuing education courses during each 2-year re-certification cycle. There are numerous courses and topics to choose from that are offered by certified vendors. The state does require that you complete 3 hours of Ethics CEUs during each renewal period.

Psychology Scholarships in Illinois

Pursuing a degree program in Psychology within the state of Illinois can be an excellent option for learners interested in influencing positive mental health. If you are one of the many students enrolling in Psychology degree programs in Illinois, you should consider applying to scholarship opportunities to help pay for your program and cover additional fees associated with higher educational programs.

The DePaul University Accelerated Adult Degree Completion Program Scholarship is an opportunity for adults 24 and older currently holding an associate’s degree. In order to qualify for this $14,000 scholarship, students must be enrolled at DePaul University and pursuing a degree program in Leadership Services or Applied Behavioral Sciences.

Students considering enrollment into an undergraduate program in Psychology could apply for the Janet Tritsch Award, which offers a $500 award to be applied towards a bachelor’s program in the field of Psychology. Students at the undergraduate level that have shown excellence in research may qualify for receiving this award.

Students considering enrollment at the University of Illinois may also apply for the Alumni Professional Development Award to help cover the costs of their educational program. To qualify, students must participate in unpaid internships during the summer semester and submit an application for consideration to the alumni team.This scholarship opportunity currently provides $2,500 to 2-5 students each year.

Scholarships for Psychology students in the state of Illinois can be found at universities, through private organizations, and even at a national level. You should take the time to review the available opportunities and submit applications to those you qualify for prior to seeking out funding through student loans or work study programs.

Psychology Careers in Illinois

Psychologists in Illinois can earn a salary from $33,980 to $99,440 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The medical field has a drastic need for psychology majors, the educational system uses psychologists directly in the school system, and even organizations use the specialties of a psychologist to help determine employee morale programs and better working environments.

Salary Info Changes Each Year

Psychologists in Illinois can earn a salary from $33,980 to $99,440 per year. Any one of Illinois’ 59 accredited universities in psychology can assist students with becoming a specialist in the field of psychology.

Careers are readily available for individuals that have obtained only a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Some find it more profitable to go forward with a graduate degree program in order to find a more specific field of work.

Illinois Psychology Licensure: Multiple Requirements

The state of Illinois requires that those pursuing psychologist status obtain licensure before beginning to practice. After receiving proof of graduate and proof of supervised work experience, the state department will make necessary background checks and then permit the graduate to take the licensure exam.

The exam will test the individual’s knowledge of psychology to make sure that the applicant is ready to practice with clients. With licensure, clinical professionals are making an average of $64,580 per year in Illinois, which makes the hard work well worth the effort.

Illinois Psychologists Licensing Board

The Illinois Psychologists Licensing Board is located in Springfield, and is responsible for the licensing, monitoring, educating of psychologists to ensure proper practices in the state.

Address:
Illinois Psychologists Licensing Board
Dept of Financial & Professional Regulation
320 W Washington Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, Illinois 62786
Phone: (217) 785-0820
Website

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