So You Want to Be a Psychologist: Charting the Path in Ontario
Psychology is a dynamic, rewarding profession rooted in science, compassion, and a deep understanding of human behaviour. If you're considering this career path, it’s helpful to understand the full journey from undergraduate studies to professional licensure. This guide offers an overview of what it takes to become a registered psychologist or psychological associate in Ontario, along with resources to support you at every stage.
The Educational Path
Becoming a psychologist or psychological associate starts with a strong academic foundation. A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field is your first step. Use this time to build your academic skills, explore areas of interest, and consider future research or clinical opportunities.
Most graduate programs in psychology require you to complete an honours degree, which includes a thesis. This helps demonstrate your research capability and ability to manage independent scholarly work. You should also complete key psychology courses in areas such as biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, as well as statistics and research methods.
Taking a broad range of psychology electives—including courses in abnormal psychology, pharmacology, child development, or forensic psychology—can help clarify your interests and strengthen your academic profile.
Applying to Graduate School
Strong applications go beyond academic transcripts. Competitive candidates also typically demonstrate:
Research assistant experience or publications
Clinical exposure or volunteer work in mental health settings
Strong academic reference letters
A clear, well-written personal statement
Applying for funding (e.g., CIHR, SSHRC) is another way to demonstrate initiative and can strengthen your application.
Make sure to research potential graduate programs carefully and identify faculty supervisors whose research aligns with your interests. Most graduate programs follow a mentorship model, so your supervisor will play a key role throughout your training.
Graduate Training
To become a registered psychologist in Ontario, you must complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from a CPA-accredited program. If you intend to become a psychological associate, a master’s degree in psychology is required.
Graduate training includes coursework in core areas such as assessment, intervention, ethics, and research. Students are also expected to complete a thesis or dissertation and may have to pass comprehensive exams. Practical experience is gained through multiple supervised practicum placements.
Residency or Internship
Doctoral students must complete a full-year, pre-doctoral residency or internship in an approved setting. This is a critical part of clinical training and offers an immersive experience under supervision before independent practice.
Supervised Practice
After completing your academic program and residency, you will need to complete a year of supervised practice. This is done under the guidance of a registered psychologist and helps you refine your skills in real-world settings.
Licensing Exams and Registration
Both psychologists and psychological associates must pass:
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The Ontario Jurisprudence and Ethics Exam
An oral exam administered by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO)
Once you have completed all requirements, you can apply for licensure.
Understanding Your Career Options
In Ontario, both psychologists and psychological associates are regulated professionals who provide psychological services. The key differences lie in the level of education and scope of independent practice:
Psychologists: Require a doctoral degree. They are trained in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment and often work in hospitals, private practices, schools, and research institutions.
Psychological Associates: Hold a master’s degree in psychology and must complete four years of supervised practice to become fully registered. They can provide many of the same services as psychologists, but within a defined scope of practice.
Mentorship, Networking, and Student Resources
Connecting with others in the field is key to professional growth. The OPA offers several resources and communities for students:
OPA Mentorship Program: Get paired with a practicing psychologist for guidance
Networking Events: Attend virtual coffee chats, career panels, and Q&As
Student Section: Participate in peer-led events and access exclusive planning tools
ONPsych Podcast & Social Media: Hear from professionals across the province
Start Your Journey
Becoming a psychologist or psychological associate is an academic journey that requires dedication, planning, and passion. Whether you're early in your undergraduate studies or preparing your grad school application, the OPA is here to support you at every step.
Explore more student resources and networking opportunities at the OPA Student Hub.