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Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

The American Board of Professional Psychology offers voluntary specialty certification in organizational and business consulting psychology. Requirements for certification include having a doctorate in psychology, professional experience, appropriate postdoctoral training, and the passing of an examination. Those who fulfill these requirements receive the designation of diplomate.

Psychologists in independent practice must be licensed or certified by the state in which they practice. Psychologists must obtain a Ph.D./Psy.D. from an accredited university, complete supervision for a period of time by a licensed psychologist, obtain a qualifying score on the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology, and pass an oral exam conducted by one’s state board. Check with your state’s licensing board for specific information.

Other Requirements

Industrial-organizational psychologists who are employed by government agencies, or consulting firms that provide services to these agencies, may need to undergo a background check and take a polygraph test.

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