Nevada Psychology Schools

Guide to Nevada Psychology Degree Programs

Psychology covers many different disciplines involving the human mind. If you are looking for a place to learn and practice, take a look at Nevada. More than 65% of the state’s population lives in and around Las Vegas. The next largest area is Reno. The state’s largest income generator is from tourism and gambling. Over the last thirty years, the population has tripled in size. With this tremendous growth rate, support industries have grown up around the largest cities. Growth in public institutions has exploded as well. Opportunities for psychology majors have increased along with everything else.

While the state’s economy is dominated by gambling related tourism, Nevada is also home to many natural wonders. The south part of the state is home to the Mohave Desert. In the northern regions, lush forests populate mountains that soar over desert basins. This diversity of nature provides many opportunities for outdoor fun. Most of it is within short distances of Reno or Las Vegas where major universities are located. These combine to make Nevada a good location for those interested in psychology.

Nevada Psychology Job Outlook and Salary

Nevada is projected to increase demand for psychologists at more than twice the national rate. The Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation projects that the state will have a 36% increase in demand. School psychologists can find jobs helping children in the education system. Private industry uses industrial psychologists to boost worker productivity and keep employee turnover down. The largest growth is found in mental health clinics and substance abuse rehabilitation centers. Public and private opportunities are growing for psychology majors throughout Nevada.

A clinical psychologist, with about 2 years of experience, can expect to make about $65,000 - $70,000 per year. Someone just getting started will find a higher than average starting salary in the $50,000 - $55,000 range. Metropolitan area salaries will be significantly higher than those found in rural areas. Private practice pays better than public jobs.

When compared to other states, Nevada is 35th in population. Job growth is going up, but the number of positions is limited by the state’s lack of population. Most opportunities are found in and around Reno and Las Vegas. Most opportunities go for doctorate degrees. Private practice, public health services or university research opportunities come available for PhD holders. Licensing is required in Nevada for psychologists. Nevada’s Board of Psychological Examiners has responsibility for regulating psychologists.

Outside of industrial psychology, opportunities are few for those with master’s degrees. Research and analysis positions can sometimes be found in universities or government arenas. Bachelor’s degree holders will find it difficult to find any job in the psychology realm. They might become research assistants or data collectors, but in Nevada this is not common.

Additional Nevada Psychology Schools

University of Nevada - Reno - http://www.unr.edu/
University of Nevada – Las Vegas - http://www.unlv.edu/
Community College of Southern Nevada - http://www.ccsn.nevada.edu/