Idaho’s burgeoning educational landscape presents two prominent schools offering a diverse array of Masters in Psychology programs. With a total of seven distinct degree paths available, these institutions are dedicated to nurturing future psychologists through innovative and comprehensive curricula. Students embarking on this intellectual journey will experience a rich blend of theory, research, and practical application, equipping them with the skills to excel in various psychological domains. Aspiring mental health professionals in Idaho can confidently pursue their passion, knowing that these exceptional programs are tailored to foster growth, ignite creativity, and inspire educational excellenceAspiring mental health professionals in Idaho can confidently pursue their passion, knowing that these exceptional programs are specifically tailored to foster growth, ignite creativity, and inspire educational excellence, ultimately preparing them to become licensed psychologists in Idaho.
Idaho’s thriving educational landscape extends beyond its diverse selection of Masters in Psychology programs to encompass an impressive range of Doctorate Psychology offerings as well. Aspiring psychologists in the state have access to a variety of specialized doctoral paths, designed to deepen their understanding and expertise in the field. These esteemed programs provide an immersive educational experience, blending advanced theoretical knowledge, cutting-edge research opportunities, and hands-on practical training.
Master’s in General Psychology
Idaho State University Master of Science in Psychology
The Idaho State University Master of Science in Psychology program offers a unique, comprehensive education to aspiring psychologists in the state of Idaho. Located in Pocatello, Idaho, the program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and provides a variety of concentrations and specializations, including Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, and Applied Psychology. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a research thesis or practicum to demonstrate their mastery of the principles of psychology. Through this program, students gain a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles and the skills to apply them professionally and personally. By completing this program, students will be prepared to pursue an advanced career in psychology and make an impact on the field.
Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Idaho.
Master’s in School/Educational Psychology
Idaho State University Master of Education of School Psychological Examiner
The Idaho State University Master of Education of School Psychological Examiner program is located in the beautiful city of Pocatello, Idaho. This program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). This specialized program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills to become school psychological examiners and provides concentrations in school psychology, educational psychology, and counseling. The curriculum offers evidence-based methods for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention in a range of educational and mental health settings. The program also allows students to develop their own research agenda and participate in supervised clinical practice. This unique program offers guidance and support to prepare students to excel in school psychology and positively contribute to their communities.
Other Psychology Programs
University of Idaho (HFES) The UI Master of Science in Psychology Human Factors
The University of Idaho offers a Master of Science in Psychology Human Factors (HFES) program to students who wish to pursue a career in this specialized field. Located in Moscow, the HFES program provides students with a comprehensive and up-to-date education in experimental psychology, applied research, and human-computer interaction. This program can be tailored to the student’s interests through concentrations in Cognitive Science, Applied Cognitive Science, Human Factors in Engineering, and Organizational Psychology. The program is accredited by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, a prestigious organization dedicated to advancing human-computer interaction and human-machine interaction. The program provides students with the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the psychological and physiological aspects of humans and to apply their learnings in a variety of contexts. Students of this program can expect to develop skills in user research, usability testing, and design, as well as a variety of other topics related to human-computer interaction. This program is designed to create well-rounded professionals who are prepared to pursue a career in this ever-evolving field.
Idaho Psychology and Mental Health-Focused Organizations
- Idaho Psychological Association (IPA) – A professional organization representing psychologists and promoting the advancement of psychology as a science and profession in Idaho.
- Idaho Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) – A membership-based organization dedicated to the growth and development of mental health counselors in Idaho.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Idaho – A statewide affiliate of NAMI that provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
- Idaho Council on Suicide Prevention – A state-sponsored council working to reduce suicide rates by promoting awareness, providing resources, and implementing effective prevention strategies.
- Idaho Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (IAMFT) – A professional association dedicated to advancing the practice of marriage and family therapy in Idaho.
- Idaho School Psychology Association (ISPA) – A membership organization that supports school psychologists in their professional development and advocacy for students’ psychological well-being.
- Idaho Behavioral Health Planning Council – A state advisory council that assists in developing and implementing the Statewide Behavioral Health Plan, focusing on mental health and substance use disorder services.
- Idaho Children’s Mental Health Network – A collaborative network of agencies and organizations working together to improve access to quality mental health services for children and youth in Idaho.
- Idaho Association for Play Therapy (IAPT) – A professional organization that promotes the understanding and use of play therapy in the mental health field, offering education and training for practitioners in Idaho.
- Idaho Society for Clinical Social Work (ISCSW) – A professional organization that supports and advocates for clinical social workers providing mental health services in Idaho.
Idaho Data and Mental Health Statistics
- As of 2021, Idaho ranked 45th in the nation for overall mental health care access, according to Mental Health America.
- In 2020, approximately 18.7% of adults in Idaho experienced a mental health disorder, slightly higher than the national average of 18.3%.
- Suicide rates in Idaho were among the highest in the nation, ranking 6th in the United States with a rate of 24.2 suicides per 100,000 people in 2019.
- According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 9.4% of adults in Idaho reported experiencing a major depressive episode in 2018-2019.
- In 2019, the Idaho Youth Risk Behavior Survey reported that 35.8% of high school students experienced sadness or hopelessness, with 18.8% seriously considering suicide.
- The prevalence of adults with serious mental illnesses in Idaho was estimated at 4.5% in 2018-2019, which is slightly higher than the national average of 4.1%.
- According to SAMHSA, only 38.5% of adults with mental illnesses in Idaho received mental health treatment or counseling in 2018-2019.
- In 2019, Idaho had a mental health workforce availability of 1 mental health provider per 370 residents, significantly lower than the national average of 1 per 310 residents.
- The Idaho Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System reported that 20.9% of adults in Idaho experienced poor mental health for 14 or more days in a 30-day period in 2020.
