Washington Psychology Schools

Browse Psychology Schools in Washington by City

Guide to Washington Psychology Degree Programs

Are you looking for an interesting and rewarding career that will allow you to live in the state of Washington? Psychology may be the answer to your dilemma. This state boasts a vibrant, diverse economy that ranges from agriculture to high tech.  Practicing psychology in this state can be done in many ways. Opportunities abound from private high-tech companies to public universities. From the beautiful Pacific waters to the highest snow covered peaks, this state boasts a diverse population. And it comes with professional sports teams and culture mixed with outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Of course the largest metropolitan area surrounds Seattle on Puget Sound. Dozens of universities dot the landscape alongside some of the largest companies in North America. All of this combines to make psychologists sought after commodities in both public and private sectors. If the big metropolis of Seattle doesn’t interest you, look east towards Tacoma or Spokane for smaller city living. Towns and villages nestle in the valleys of the beautiful Cascades and the steppes of eastern Washington. All of this comes with a casual lifestyle steeped in northwest characteristic style.

Washington Psychology Job Outlook and Salary


Growth in psychology related jobs is expected to grow faster than the national average in Washington State. The number of jobs should rise over 20% in the next decade according to Washington State Employment Security Department, Labor Market and Economic Analysis Branch. Private industry jobs will likely lead the way with clinical, counseling and school psychologists coming in a close second. Teaching and research opportunities can be found close to universities from one corner of the state to the next.

Those seeking licensing in Washington will need to contact the Washington State Examining Board of Psychology. Practicing psychologists can work in public or private clinics, in social work or private industry. Research opportunities are available in private industry and the universities as well. The median salary, according to Payscale, is around $65,000 with starting salaries closer to $42000 - $45,000. Specialization and education have an impact on these figures. Location also impacts starting salaries. Seattle commands a higher salary than more rural destinations. But cost of living in Seattle is higher than in the rest of the state, so that should be considered.

For those with bachelor’s or master’s degrees, the opportunities for employment become limited here as with other states. A bachelor’s degree can find someone a position teaching psychology at the high school level or working in data collection and analysis. Research and analysis jobs are also available for a master’s degree holder along with supervised counseling positions with a licensed psychologist. Many people consider going on for a doctorate degree while holding these positions. It provides on the job training while pursuing a higher degree.

Additional Washington Psychology Schools

University of Washington - http://www.washington.edu
Northwest University - http://www.northwestu.edu/
Gonzaga University - http://www.gonzaga.edu/

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