Neuropsychology Degree Overview

If you are interested in how the brain and the nervous system affect human behavior, consider earning a neuropsychology degree. It can lead to careers in clinical and research settings. Explore this guide to learn what a neuropsychologist does and the educational and training requirements needed to become one.

Degrees in Neuropsychology

A neuropsychologist must hold a doctorate to practice in the field. After earning a bachelor's degree, some neuropsychologists may pursue a master's in psychology, neuropsychology, or a related field before entering a doctoral program.

Although requirements vary by state, most neuropsychologists complete a doctoral program in psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology or neuroscience. Following doctoral training, aspiring neuropsychologists must complete extensive postdoctoral field experiences, pass a licensure exam, and, in some cases, qualify for board certifications.

Bachelor's Degree in Neuropsychology

Because of the specialized nature of the field, students typically do not begin to concentrate on the study of neuropsychology until they complete their bachelor's degree.

Undergraduate programs dedicated solely to neuropsychology are uncommon, but you can obtain a strong foundation by majoring in psychology, biology, or neuroscience. Taking neuroscience, neuroanatomy, and psychological research courses and completing an internship can prepare you for the graduate programs.

If you are looking for a more flexible alternative to a campus-based undergraduate program, you may pursue an online bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field.

Master's Degree in Neuropsychology

Most aspiring neuropsychologists go straight from their bachelor's degree to a doctoral program in neuropsychology. However, some students earn a master's in neuropsychology, clinical psychology, or a related field as a next step.

A master's can help you decide if neuropsychology is the right career for you. This degree can also help you boost your competitive edge when applying to selective doctoral programs.

You take courses in areas such as learning and cognition, memory and the brain, and neuroscience, along with required clinical hours, internships, and research experiences, which can help prepare you for the demands of rigorous doctoral study.

If you decide to pursue a master's in psychology but need to maintain work or personal commitments, you can find several programs available in convenient online or hybrid formats.

Doctorate in Neuropsychology

A neuropsychologist must hold a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). The Psy.D. focuses on clinical training, while the Ph.D. emphasizes scientific research. As the demand for research and treatment applications expands, more options for doctoral study have become available, including online neuropsychology degrees.

During your doctoral studies, you will complete advanced coursework in neuroanatomy, biopsychology, neuropsychological assessment, and research methods. You will also have to complete an internship and a dissertation based on independent research.

In addition to clinical hours and internships completed during your neuropsychological degree, expect to spend 1-2 years in a postdoctoral fellowship to qualify for licensure and certification.

To qualify for a state license, you need to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Neurologists often earn board certification through the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN) or the American Board of Professional Neuropsychology (ABPN).

What Does a Neuropsychologist Do?

Neuropsychologists work with people of all ages, from infancy to adulthood, assessing and treating a wide variety of disorders related to changes in cognitive functioning, such as traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, stroke, ADH, or Alzheimer's disease.

Neuropsychologists collaborate with other healthcare providers, including neurologists, neurosurgeons, and psychiatrists, to administer language assessments, personality tests, mental exams, and other diagnostic tools. Based on these evaluations, they prepare a detailed report for patients and their healthcare team to guide treatment decisions.

Some neuropsychologists mainly work as researchers with no direct patient interaction. Known as cognitive neuropsychologists, they typically work in academic and research institutions, conducting studies and developing new evaluation tools to advance the field. Whether clinical or cognitive-focused, all neuropsychologists must stay current in the field, attend conferences, participate in professional organizations, and maintain licensure and certification credentials.

What Else Can I Do With a Neuropsychology Degree?

A doctorate in psychology can expand professional career options beyond clinical practice into other areas, including teaching, research, and consulting. A doctorate is generally required for teaching positions at the postsecondary level.

Neuropsychologists may find research positions at universities, academic medical centers, or government agencies. They may also move into private practice or start their own consulting and research firms. Neuropsychologists with clinical experiences often advance into supervisory positions as directors or department heads in hospitals and clinics.

Voluntary certifications like those offered through theABCN and theABPN can advance career opportunities. Neuropsychologists who want to specialize in the care of children may pursue board certification in pediatric neuropsychology, available through the ABCN or the American Board of Pediatric Neuropsychology (AAPdN).

Frequently Asked Questions About Neuropsychology

What is the difference between a psychologist and a neuropsychologist?

Psychologists focus on human behavior and mental processes, including perception, cognition, emotion, and mental health. Neuropsychologists specialize in how the brain and the nervous system influence cognitive processes, emotions, and behavior.

Do neuropsychologists deal with mental disorders?

Neuropsychologists have the training to diagnose and treat behavioral and mental disorders associated with cognitive impairment, including conditions such as dementia, memory loss, and attention disorders.

Do neuropsychologists go to med school?

Licensed neuropsychologists have either a Ph.D. or Psy.D. degree. They do not hold medical degrees, may not use the MD designation, and cannot administer medications.

How much do neuropsychologists earn?

According to Payscale, neuropsychologists earn an average base salary of $105,240 as of March 2024. Several factors impact salaries, including work experience, specializations, and employment setting.