Psychology in South Dakota: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in SD
What does it take to become a psychologist in South Dakota? Learn about the psychology licensure process in South Dakota, requirements, salary prospects, and more.
Over two-thirds of South Dakota’s population have unmet mental healthcare needs, according to KFF, a health policy organization. This mental health crisis is particularly apparent among rural, tribal, and other underserved communities. As a licensed psychologist, you can make a difference in the lives of South Dakotans. Explore this guide to South Dakota psychology licensure to learn how to enter this field.
South Dakota Psychology Licensure Requirements
You must obtain a state-issued license to practice as a psychologist in South Dakota. The Board of Examiners of Psychologists, part of the South Dakota Department of Social Services, is the licensing authority responsible for the application process, renewals, compliance with state laws and professional ethical standards, and disciplinary actions. The Board does not license school psychologists. Information on school psychology certification is available through the South Dakota Department of Education.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in South Dakota?
Becoming a licensed psychologist in South Dakota can take 12 years, including earning a bachelor’s degree. Completing a doctorate in psychology may take 4-8 years of study, including coursework, internships, and research. A Ph.D., which requires a dissertation, often takes longer than a Psy.D. After obtaining your degree, you must complete at least one year of postdoctoral supervised practice experience before becoming licensed.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in South Dakota
License reciprocity allows qualified psychologists outside South Dakota to obtain a license to practice without repeating requirements. To qualify for licensure by reciprocity, South Dakota requires a valid license issued by another state or province of Canada and five years of experience as a licensed psychologist.
Psychologists from out-of-state must meet or exceed South Dakota’s licensing requirements, including completion of an approved doctoral degree and postdoctoral supervised experience, and verification of passing scores on the EPPP. In addition, applicants must pass the state’s oral exam and submit professional references and a criminal background check.
How to Renew a Psychology License in South Dakota
South Dakota psychologists must renew their licenses by June 30 every year. License renewal requires submitting an application and a $300 renewal fee, and completing 15 hours of continuing education within each renewal period. Approved continuing education activities must focus on psychology practice, either improving professional skills or updating knowledge of laws, rules, and ethical standards. Renewal rules limit self-directed, professional reading to five of the 15 continuing education hours yearly.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in South Dakota
How much you can earn as a licensed psychologist in South Dakota depends on specialization, experience, and location. Average annual salaries range from approximately $87,000 to over $121,000, significantly higher than the state’s average yearly salary of $53,230 for all occupations. While salaries for psychologists in South Dakota rank below the national average, the state’s low cost of living and tax-friendly policies enable licensed psychologists to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $87,040 | $41.85 |
| School Psychologists | $78,130 | $37.56 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $121,650 | $58,49 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in South Dakota
- South Dakota Psychological Association: An affiliate of the American Psychological Association, SDPA is the only organization in the state promoting the profession of psychology and representing the interests of psychologists in the state. Members benefit from professional development, networking, and advocacy at the state and national levels for policies that benefit the profession.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Psychology Licensure
To practice legally as a psychologist in South Dakota, you must obtain a state-issued license from the Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Licensed psychologists must hold a doctorate in psychology, complete all experience requirements, and achieve passing scores on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and the state-specific oral exam.
