Neuropsychologists and Clinical Neuropsychologists

Employment for all psychologists is expected to grow by 7 percent (faster than the average) from 2023 through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

There will continue to be employment opportunities for neuropsychologists and clinical neuropsychologists in hospitals, mental health centers, schools, and social service agencies, as well as in consulting firms and private companies. The growth of the aging population will require the expertise of neuropsychologists to diagnose and treat dementia and other brain diseases and disorders. The growing interest in psychological services for other special groups, such as children, will also create job opportunities for neuropsychologists and clinical neuropsychologists. Many of these areas depend on government funding, however, and could be adversely affected in an economic downswing when spending is likely to be curtailed. The best job prospects will be in business and industry, and the outlook is good for neuropsychologists who are in full-time independent practice.

Neuropsychologists with doctorates in applied areas, such as clinical, counseling, health, industrial/organizational, and school psychology, and extensive training in quantitative research and computer applications will have good employment opportunities. Postdoctorates are becoming increasingly crucial in research neuropsychology that deals with behavior based on biology.

Competition for jobs will be tougher for those with master's or bachelor's degrees. Most job candidates with bachelor's degrees, in fact, will not be able to find employment in the psychology field beyond assistant-level jobs at such places as rehabilitation centers. Some may work as high school psychology teachers if they meet state teaching certification requirements.