Continuing Education in Psychology

Education does not end for psychologists the moment they graduate with their doctorate degree. Because psychology is a science, it is constantly changing and growing. Continuing education allows psychologists to stay current with the practices and knowledge in their field of study. In fact, many states require continuing education as part of the license renewal process. Continuing education requirements vary from state to state so it's important to know what is required along with the type of courses available, so that license renewal guidelines are met.

Specific Subjects

Individual states may have specific subject areas that are required as part of the continuing education requirements. For example, according to the Florida Department of Health, Florida requires 40 hours of continued education on a biennial basis. Two hours of continuing psychological education on domestic violence is required every third biennial renewal period.

Requirements

The 2006 American Psychological Association (APA) State Provincial Continuing Education in Psychology Requirements survey results indicate that 43 states plus the District of Columbia have continuing education requirements for psychologists. States indicating they do not require continuing education include Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey and New York. Regulations are state specific and the hours of continuing education required vary from state to state.

Types of Courses

Individual states determine the types of course that they will count toward the continuing education requirements. The types of courses available are diverse and include online courses, home study programs, conventions, college courses, seminars, symposia and presentations at conferences.

Providers

Each state has its own criteria for approving continuing education providers. Many states automatically accept continuing education credits earned through specific organizations and courses sponsored by those organizations. Other states only accept credit from their list of approved providers.

Warning

Since requirements for continuing education vary from state to state, check with your state for requirements prior to enrolling in a continuing education course. For quick reference, the American Psychological Association (APA) publishes the results from its state survey on continuing education requirements on its website. Most states do not accept credit for continuing education courses that focus on the business aspects of practicing psychology.

References

• American Psychological Association: State Provincial Mandatory Continuing Education in Psychology (MCEP) Requirements-2006 Survey Results
• Indiana Professional Licensing Agency: Indiana State Psychology Board: Continuing Education Requirements & Sponsorship Information
• Florida Department of Health: Florida Board of Psychology: Continuing Education
• California Psychological Association: What Every CA Licensed Psychologist Should Know!

Resources

• American Psychological Association