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Mixtly
Student
El Monte, California
3
Questions
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What degrees and training are needed to become a neuropsychologist?
What degrees are typically required (for example, do I need a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology, or is there a specific neuropsychology program)?
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1 answer
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1381
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Mixtly,
Great question! Neuropsychology is a very specialized path, so it’s good you’re asking early. The standard pathway is to start with a bachelor’s degree (usually in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field). After that, you will need a doctoral degree, most commonly a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology with a focus or specialization in neuropsychology. There usually isn’t a standalone “neuropsychology” degree at the undergraduate level; it’s something you specialize in as you go higher.
During your doctorate, you’ll complete clinical training and research, then move into a specialized internship (often in neuropsychology or a related clinical setting). After that, most people complete a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology, where they get focused, hands-on experience working with patients who have brain-related conditions.
Lastly, you’ll need to become licensed as a psychologist, which involves supervised hours and passing licensing exams. Some people also pursue board certification in neuropsychology later on, though that’s optional.
It’s a longer path compared to some other careers in psychology, but it’s very structured. If you stay consistent, build strong grades, get research or lab experience early, and seek out relevant training, you can move through it step by step. You don’t need to have everything figured out now. Just focus on building a strong foundation in your undergraduate years, and the specialization will come with time.
Best wishes!
Great question! Neuropsychology is a very specialized path, so it’s good you’re asking early. The standard pathway is to start with a bachelor’s degree (usually in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field). After that, you will need a doctoral degree, most commonly a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology with a focus or specialization in neuropsychology. There usually isn’t a standalone “neuropsychology” degree at the undergraduate level; it’s something you specialize in as you go higher.
During your doctorate, you’ll complete clinical training and research, then move into a specialized internship (often in neuropsychology or a related clinical setting). After that, most people complete a postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology, where they get focused, hands-on experience working with patients who have brain-related conditions.
Lastly, you’ll need to become licensed as a psychologist, which involves supervised hours and passing licensing exams. Some people also pursue board certification in neuropsychology later on, though that’s optional.
It’s a longer path compared to some other careers in psychology, but it’s very structured. If you stay consistent, build strong grades, get research or lab experience early, and seek out relevant training, you can move through it step by step. You don’t need to have everything figured out now. Just focus on building a strong foundation in your undergraduate years, and the specialization will come with time.
Best wishes!