Tennessee Psychology Schools

Guide to Tennessee Psychology Degree Programs

Tennessee can be a great state to learn and live in to the surprise of some. This state sits in the heart of the South land. It is home to several urban centers with rural communities stretched in between. One side of the state borders the Mississippi River with the city of Memphis shining bright. The middle of the state sees Nashville as Country Music’s capital. The eastern part of the state dips to the Tennessee River Valley before soaring to the Smoky Mountain line. This valley is home to Knoxville and Chattanooga. Manufacturing, agriculture and tourism are the major economic engines within the state. Several major companies have placed their headquarters in the state and it has become a major logistics hub. Some auto manufacturing has migrated there from the North, although some turbulence is being seen in that sector.

Education opportunities are rich within Tennessee’s borders. There are several private and public institutions that have psychology degrees at varying levels. The urban centers provide the best opportunities for psychologists within the state. Population levels have been growing for many decades and the growth is projected to continue. More and more of the population is coming from outside the state and even outside the country. Nashville has experienced record growth from people moving there for the lower cost of living as well as the mild climate. Outdoor recreation is available year round across the state for anyone who wants to enjoy it.

Tennessee Psychology Job Outlook and Salary

By 2014, it is projected that Tennessee will see a 16% demand growth according to the state’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development. This is on par to match the national average. According to Payscale, a clinical psychologist in Tennessee will average $59,200 annually after practicing for a few years. Those beginning will average around $41,000 - $43,000.

Tennessee is a moderately populated state with some densely packed urban areas and sparsely populated rural areas. Most job opportunities require an applicant to hold a doctorate in psychology. Tennessee licenses those practicing psychology. The Tennessee Board of Examiners of Psychology is responsible for regulating psychologists. For those holding master's and bachelor's degrees, the options are limited. Those with master’s degrees may be able to do limited counseling under the direct guidance of a licensed psychologist.

Private sector jobs are expected to offer higher salaries than those in the public sector. Job seekers in major urban centers such as Memphis, Nashville or Knoxville can expect higher salaries than those in rural communities. Private industry positions will be available in these centers, but not as readily as other specializations. Schools and mental health centers will need psychologists at a steady growing rate over the next few years. Substance abuse centers have a growing need as well.

Additional Tennessee Psychology Schools

Vanderbilt University - http://www.vanderbilt.edu/
University of Tennessee - http://www.tennessee.edu/
University of Memphis - http://www.memphis.edu/