Are you considering a career in psychology and want to attend one of the best psychology colleges in Florida? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This blog will provide you with an overview of the top psychology programs in Florida, as well as some helpful tips on how to select the best fit for your needs. We’ll cover the best psychology colleges in Florida, the different types of psychology programs available, and the best ways to differentiate between them.
We’ll also provide some general advice about selecting the right psychology program for you. Finally, we’ll discuss some of the career paths available to psychology graduates from Florida. By the end of this blog, you should have a better understanding of the psychology programs available in Florida, and how to go about selecting the best one for you.
Psychology degrees are among the most popular and common choices for students, but there are few states where a formal education in psychology is more popular than Florida. According to the most recent subject-specific degree data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, psychology schools in Florida conferred 4,866 bachelor’s degrees in psychology in 2009-10, which ranks fourth in the country in that category, and another 987 master’s degrees in psychology, which also ranks in the top 10 nationally.
It is difficult to say whether those numbers have risen or whether they plateaued but even so, psychology education makes up a healthy chunk of higher education in the state. With a wide range and variety of psychology schools in Florida and a number of major cities that boast active psychology communities for students to network in, Florida is an excellent choice for students looking for a psychology education.
What is Psychology?
Psychology is a field of study that trains students about the human mind. This includes mental disorders, clinical psychology, and social psychology.
Basically, trained psychologists apply their knowledge in different fields of endeavour to help humans achieve high productivity by ensuring their mind is aligned with their goals.
An undergraduate study in psychology earns you a bachelor’s degree. Most go further to get a Master’s degree.
What is a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?
For psychology studies, you can either earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
Is there a difference? Absolutely, there is. But the both of them is a certified bachelor’s degree. The only major difference is the different approaches and curricula used in training.
What’s the Difference between a BA and a BS in Psychology?
As earlier stated, a BA or BS in psychology is an internationally recognized certification. However, both do not mean one and the same thing literally.
A Bachelor of Science (BS)in psychology requires a more science-focused general education approach to studies. On the other hand, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) takes a liberal-arts general education approach in learning.
However, both degrees provide undergraduate education in psychology. A BS or BA in psychology serves as a foundation for graduate study or a launch into the market space.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Psychology?
There are many different options available to psychology degree holders, depending on your specializations and interests, such as:
- Psychologist
- Psychotherapist
- Social worker
- Counselor
- Educational psychologist
- Human resource manager
- Teacher
- Research roles
- Media roles
- Mental health therapy
Although many roles will be available to you with an undergraduate degree, some more highly specialized roles may require further study. Of the psychology careers which don’t require further study, training is usually available on the job to ensure you continue moving forward in your career.
What are the career options for psychology students?
A bachelor’s degree in psychology can lead to employment opportunities in fields such as business, education, and healthcare. Within these fields, students can pursue roles as analysts, teachers, and childcare workers. Clinical psychology positions, however, typically require a doctoral degree. Clinical psychologists often work in private practices, hospitals, and health clinics, assisting patients with mental health and behavioral issues.
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How do I start a career in psychology?
The minimum degree requirement to become a practicing psychologist is a master’s degree, though many of the top careers in psychology require a doctorate. Additionally, most states require one or two years of a supervised clinical experience to qualify for a license. Once you meet the state’s requirements, you must successfully pass a national exam.
What are the highest-paying jobs in psychology?
Salaries for psychologists vary greatly depending on their field, experience, and industry type. In 2019, industrial-organizational psychologists earned a median annual wage of $92,880, while clinical and counseling psychologists earned $78,200, according to the BLS. Additionally, psychologists working in government roles earned a median annual wage of $96,870, while those employed in elementary and secondary schools earned a median annual wage of $76,960.
Is a psychology degree worth it?
While it may be difficult to enter into high-paying jobs in psychology with only a bachelor’s degree, psychology majors can work in fields like business and education. Additionally, if you’re passionate about helping others, you can also pursue entry-level roles in the social services sectors. Psychology majors who go on to earn a graduate degree can access lucrative careers with high levels of responsibility.
Best Colleges in Florida for Psychology
In a bid to simplify the process of finding the perfect school for you, we have come up with a list of the best psychology colleges in Florida. We’ve compiled a list of schools based on the cost of tuition, (lowest is best) and the teacher-student ratio (lowest is best).
1. Jacksonville University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 11:1
- Tuition: $19,950 per semester
- Location: Jacksonville, Florida
At Jacksonville University, prospective psychology students can earn a BA or BS degree. Basically, Jacksonville focuses its curriculum on theoretical, research-based, and applied psychology. Also, her students gain experience and have access to internships and independent study programs.
2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 15:1
- Tuition: $8795 per semester
- Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Florida A & M is one of the best universities for an undergraduate psychology program. At Florida A & M, you can get a BA, BS or a minor degree in psychology.
Besides that, the school allows students to decide whether or not to emphasize Black Psychology and Multicultural Psychology. Other program courses include; Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology and Psychology of Women.
#3. Palm Beach Atlantic University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 12:1
- Tuition: $16,440 per semester
- Location: West Palm Beach, Florida
Up next on our list of Florida best psychology schools in Palm Beach Atlantic University. Palm Beach Atlantic University is a Christian university that offers a BS and minor degree in Psychology.
Peculiar to this university is the incorporation of Christianity into Psychology. Other program courses include; neurobiology of learning and memory and procedures in counselling.
Another great feature of this psychology school is that their students spend at least a semester overseas at connected programs in Oxford, London, or Florence.
#4. Florida State University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 16:1
- Tuition: $10,842 per semester
- Location: Tallahassee, Florida
FSU as is popularly called is the 2nd best Florida psychology school. Here at FSU, you can earn a minor, BA or BS degree in psychology.
Also, psychology students can take part in human and animal lab research in London. Keep in mind that CACREP, APA, and NASP accredits this program.
#5. The University of Miami
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 12:1
- Tuition: $26,040 per semester
- Location: Coral Gables, Florida
The University of Miami is one of the universities of reckoning in Florida. Besides it has the best psychology programs, they are also known as one of the best schools for engineering in Florida.
The psychology program offered by the University of Miami is highly competitive with lots of research opportunities. At the end of the course, the undergraduate earns either a BA or a BS degree.
#6. Florida Southern College
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 14:1
- Tuition: $19,490 per semester
- Location: Lakeland, Florida
Florida Southern College is one of the best psychology schools in the state. The college offers both programs for BA and BS students.
At Florida Southern College, students have access to peer-reviewed projects and research opportunities. Also, they have internship opportunities even in marine mammal training.
#7. University of Florida
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 17:1
- Tuition: $14,329 per semester
- Location: Gainesville, Florida
The University of Florida is one of the top 40 psychology universities in the US. If you would want to run a psychology program online, then the University of Florida got you covered.
However, you have to choose one of the following tracks general psychology, behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, or behaviour analysis
#8. University of Tampa
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 17:1
- Tuition: $14,401 per semester
- Location: Tampa, Florida
The University of Tampa offers both BA and BS undergraduate degrees in psychology. Many choose the University of Tampa because their psychology curriculum exceeds the educational requirements set by the American Psychological Association.
#9. Saint Leo University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 18:1
- Tuition: $11,995 per semester
- Location: St. Leo, Florida
You can only get a BA degree in psychology at Saint Leo University. However, you have to specialize in either of the following; clinical/counselling, general, experimental and developmental psychology. Also, you can take the degree online or on-campus.
#10. Florida Atlantic University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 21:1
- Tuition: $8662 per semester
- Location: Boca Raton, Florida
A psychology program at Florida Atlantic University is offered by their affiliate college; Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. At the end of your study, you earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Prior to graduation, students get the opportunity to do various laboratory research works.
#11. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- Credits required: 123
- Faculty-student ratio: 17:1
- Tuition: $19,057 per semester
- Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach is one of the best psychology schools in Florida. What they do offer is a BS in Human Factors Psychology.
It’s one of its kind in the whole of the United States. Basically, the program instructs students on how to combine systems design with psychology to design technologies that are intuitive to use.
Other course programs include industrial-organizational psychology, training and development, and human factors and system safety.
#12. Florida Gulf Coast University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 21:1
- Tuition: $10,065 per semester
- Location: Fort Myers, Florida
Earn BA in psychology at Florida Gulf Coast University. The psychology program at Florida Gulf Coast University is intriguing.
However, their major focus is on neuroscience and cognition. An add-on to the program includes various independent research opportunities accredited by CACREP.
Most of the courses you will come across include the psychology of human sexuality, human memory and cognition, and the psychology of adulthood and ageing.
#13. University of South Florida
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 23:1
- Tuition: $2516 per semester
- Location: Tampa, Florida
Next on our list of best Florida psychology universities is the University of South Florida. Here at the University of South Florida can earn a BA in Psychology by specialising in advanced research experience in psychology or diversity.
#14. Southeastern University
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 23:1
- Tuition: $6630 per semester
- Location: Lakeland, Florida
Southeastern University is one of the best schools for psychology programs in Florida. Besides the fact that you can earn a BS in psychology, you either earn it online or on-campus. Some other courses in the program include statistical methods in psychology, communication and careers in psychology and theories of personality.
#15. University of Central Florida
- Credits required: 120
- Faculty-student ratio: 30:1
- Tuition: $1261 per semester
- Location: Orlando, Florida
If studying in a large class is part of your consideration when choosing the best school for psychology then the University of Central Florida should be the 1st on your list.
UCF has the most number of psychology students in the Western Hemisphere. However, their curriculum is focused on a BS in Psychology. Some of the courses of interest include personality theory and research and psychological measurement.
Following this assertion, these are the best psychology schools in Florida you can apply to. Keep in mind that each will have its own spelt-out requirements.
Therefore, we strongly recommend that you visit the school’s website for more details and on how to apply. Also, consider the tuition cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Colleges and Universities in Florida for Psychology Programs.
What are the Top 5 Psychology Schools in Florida?
If you’re looking for the top 5 best Florida schools for psychology programs, then here are them; Jacksonville University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Florida State University and the University of Miami.
How many Credit Hours Does a Psychology Program Take?
Majorly, a psychology program takes about 120 credit-hours worth of classes. However, for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, it takes 123 hours to complete.
How Long does it Take to Complete an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology?
Most psychology undergraduate programs take four years to complete.
Is there a shortage of school psychologists in Florida?
What are the Requirements to Become a Psychologist in Florida?
In order to work as a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida all candidates are required to have a doctoral degree, either a Ph.D. or a PsyD in psychology or a closely related field, this degree must be from an approved institution. Transcripts of your doctorate are required when applying for licensure.
Once you have received your master’s degree you will need to continue in higher education and study for a doctorate as a Ph.D. or a PsyD are a requirement to become a licensed psychologist in Florida.
How much does a Bachelor Degree In Psychology make in Florida?
As of Mar 27, 2023, the average annual pay for the Bachelor Degree In Psychology jobs category in Florida is $39,498 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $18.99 an hour. This is the equivalent of $759/week or $3,291/month.
While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $75,277 and as low as $18,322, the majority of salaries within the Bachelor Degree In Psychology jobs category currently range between $29,872 (25th percentile) to $49,787 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $68,108 annually in Florida.
The average pay range for a Bachelor Degree In Psychology job varies greatly (as much as $19,915), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Bachelor Degree In Psychology job market in Florida is not very active as few companies are currently hiring.
Florida ranks number 49 out of 50 states nationwide for Bachelor Degree In Psychology job salaries. To estimate the most accurate annual salary range for Bachelor Degree In Psychology jobs, ZipRecruiter continuously scans its database of millions of active jobs published locally throughout America.
How many licensed psychologists are in Florida?
Conclusion
Florida is home to a number of excellent psychology colleges that offer students a variety of educational and career opportunities in the field of psychology. Whether you’re interested in a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Master’s degree in counseling, or a Doctorate in clinical psychology, you can find a program to fit your needs. From large, research–focused universities to small private colleges, Florida’s psychology colleges have something for everyone. With a wide range of psychology programs and world–class faculty, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to furthering your education and career in psychology.
