Neuropsychologists and Clinical Neuropsychologists

High School

To become a neuropsychologist, you'll need to complete extensive education beyond high school so be sure to enroll in college preparatory courses. Classes should include mathematics (algebra, geometry, and calculus, physics), biology, chemistry, psychology, sociology, English courses, and computer science. Take a modern foreign language, such as French or German, because reading comprehension of these languages is usually one of the requirements for a doctorate degree.

Postsecondary Training

Many neuropsychologists and clinical neuropsychologists hold a doctorate in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.). Some doctoral programs offer degrees in neuropsychology, although many have doctorate programs in psychology or clinical psychology, with a concentration in neuropsychology.

Undergraduate studies may concentrate on psychology, but not all graduate programs require entering students to have a bachelor's degree in psychology. Nevertheless, college studies should include psychology courses, such as experimental psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology. Other essential studies include classes in statistics, as well as such classes as English, foreign language, and history to complete a strong liberal arts education.

Master's degree level courses usually cover statistics, ethics, and industrial and organizational content. Some doctoral programs accept students with master's degrees; in other cases, students enter a doctoral program with only a bachelor's degree. Because entrance requirements vary, you will need to research the programs you are interested in to find out their specific requirements. The doctorate degree typically takes between four and seven years to complete for those who begin their studies with only a bachelor's degree. Course work will include studies in various areas of psychology, neuropsychology, and research (including neuroscience, neuroanatomy, pathopsychology, and quantitative research methods). Those who focus on research often complete a yearlong postdoctoral fellowship. Those studying to become clinical or counseling neuropsychologists must complete a one-year supervised internship. Frequently those who are interested in clinical neuropsychology will earn the Psy.D., because this degree emphasizes clinical rather than research work. Those interested in clinical neuropsychology should attend a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Unlike psychiatrists, neuropsychologists do not need to attend medical school.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in neuropsychology, clinical neuropsychology, and related fields. For example, Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, offers a graduate certificate in neuropsychology for teaching and learning. Students will take classes such as Fundamentals of Neuropsychology for Teaching and Learning; Social and Emotional Development; Adult Development and Aging; Human Learning and Achievement Motivation; and Neuropsychology of Reading and Language. Certificate programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Neuropsychologists are required to maintain their licensure by completing continuing education (CE) seminars, webinars, and other learning opportunities provided by professional associations at the national, state, and local levels. The American Psychological Association, for example, offers online courses, classes, and workshops on topics ranging from ethics and legal issues to practice specialties and mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. The American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology, National Association of School Psychologists, Society for Industrial & Organizational Psychology, and the American College of Forensic Psychology also provide CE opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.