Career roadmap
How to Become a Psychology Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a psychology professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a psychology professor: (1) earn a psychology bachelor’s, (2) work in a lab, (3) complete a Ph.D., (4) publish, (5) get hired. Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a psychology professor
Earn a psychology bachelor’s
Research experience.
Work in a lab
Assistant roles.
Complete a Ph.D.
Research.
Publish
Articles.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in psychology is typical for universities; community colleges often accept a master’s degree.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in psychology: Doctoral degree.
- Licensed psychologist: For clinical faculty.
- IRB training: Human research ethics.
- Research grants: NIH, NSF.
Skills to build now
Start with psychological science, research methods, and statistics, and practice mentoring and communication. Learning the psychology professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Graduate Instructor: Train.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Psychology Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a psychology professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in psychology is typical for universities; community colleges often accept a master’s degree.
Do you need a degree to be a psychology professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a Ph.D., while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree.
What certifications are available for psychology professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in psychology, Licensed psychologist, IRB training, and Research grants. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1066 (Psychology teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Psychology teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.