Last Updated on December 29, 2022
Is Psychology a good career in Canada? It pays well, there are abundant job opportunities, and it is a respected field of study. Is a Psychology degree worth the money for those in Canada? How much does a psychologist make? And where can you find out about internships, volunteering positions, full-time jobs and how to get licensed as a psychologist? Here at infolearners.com we have all the answers you were looking for.
This Psychology Career guide will help you make the most informed career decision possible. By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of ‘is psychology a good career path in Canada?’ and whether it is right for you. If you plan to or want to work as a Psychologist or in a similar occupation in the future, keep reading!
As a college student, you want to make sure you’re making the best decision for your future. And if you’re pursuing a path in Psychology, chances are that this is one of your biggest decisions to make. It’s no secret; Canada has many career opportunities for psychologists. But, with so many requirements and educational choices, it can be confusing at times to determine the right path for yourself. If you aren’t 100% sure of all the requirements and salary in a psychologist career in Canada, then all your questions will likely be answered below.
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Is Psychology A Good Career In Canada
Psychologists are not only highly in-demand but are one of the highest paying jobs in Canada in 2020. As a qualified and experienced clinical psychologist, you could earn between $97,451 and $130,932 per year living and working in Canada.
Ready to start the process? Simply click the link below, complete our online contact form and one of our knowledgeable visa consultants will be in touch to guide you through the eligibility assessment process.
Need more information on what awaits you when you immigrate to Canada as a therapist of some kind? Keep reading to find out how we can help you make the move to Canada, and hopefully, find your dream job as a psychologist in the great white north.
Psychology in Canada
Psychology is the science of human behavior and mind. Psychology goes into every corner of life from economy, politics, society, education culture to medicine … Therefore, psychology is the science of studying human behavior through psychological manifestations, going into spiritual research in all areas of life. Therefore, those who pursue this field of study can know how to balance themselves and help others lead a better life.
Studying psychology in Canada, you will be well-trained with basic and advanced knowledge about psychology such as communication psychology, labor psychology, educational psychology, family psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, school counselling or topics of situation handling in life…
What will you learn when studying abroad psychology in Canada?
Any profession has certain requirements and challenges. In particular, the psychology is more demanding and specialized such as requiring rich knowledge and deep understanding of cultural and social fields. You are required to be honest, objectively judgmental, sensitive and open and especially subject to high pressure at work as well as practice patience, listen to others to share, empathize and understand matters…
Studying psychology in Canada, you will be trained to:
- Know how to identify psychological issues, assess the extent of disease based on symptoms
- Solve problems that patients encounter
- Know how to select sources of quality information about psychology such as the internet, books and newspapers …
- Know how to write a report on a psychological issue in the academic style
Job opportunities for psychology graduates
As you know Canada is one of the most developed countries in the world, so living and working here, workers will face many different pressures such as finance, family, society etc., which leads to increasing of psychological problems. Therefore, psychology is one of Canada’s industries that is in high demand for huge human resources to meet the needs of society.
For the past 15 years, the industry’s unemployment rate has always been low at only 4-6% and psychology has always been in the top 100 best occupations in Canada. Therefore, students who study psychology in Canada can completely be assured.
Students after graduation can do the following jobs:
- Psychologists at educational institutions
- Lecturers specializing in psychology at universities
- Career counselling for students
- Psychotherapist at the hospital
- Counsellors on daily life issues such as love, marriage and family …
The salary of psychology will depend on the number of years of experience. The average salary of a psychologist is about C$ 77,012 per year. For professionals with 5 years or more experience, the salary can reach over C$ 85,000/year.
Leading schools that deliver psychology courses in Canada
University of the Fraser Valley
The University of the Fraser Valley is Canada’s school many students choose to study. It ranks first in British Columbia for the quality of teaching, the learning environment as well as the interaction between teachers and students.
Psychology is one of the key disciplines of the University of the Fraser Valley. Here students will learn about research areas, especially in the last 2 years of the bachelor program, students will chose a major to study based on their interests.
In addition, the University of the Fraser Valley offers honours for elite students in psychology. Therefore, if you enroll in this program you will be supported by professors. As a result, these graduates are often highly appreciated by employers.
Humber College
Humber College is one of the top-quality colleges in Canada. This is a gathering place for professors with many years of experience in the field of teaching. Studying in such a good environment, students studying psychology in Canada will develop more skills of themselves, better serve the future job.
Studying psychology at Humber College, students are also provided with the skills needed for future work.
Carleton University
Carleton University is one of the most popular schools in Ottawa. The study programs here are very practical, helping students gain knowledge and opportunities to practice to improve their own experience.
Studying Psychology at Carleton University, students can choose from different majors such as:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Health Psychology
- Organizational Psychology
- Personality and Social Psychology
psychologist in canada requirements
1. Research psychology subfields
Take your time to research the available subfields in psychology before joining college to meet all the requirements. Here is a list of some of the most popular subfields in Canada:
- school psychology
- forensic psychology
- social Psychology
- industrial psychology
- sports psychology
- counseling psychology
- neuropsychological research and experimental research
- health psychology
- developmental psychology
- education psychology
- clinical psychology
2. Complete undergraduate studies in psychology
An undergraduate degree is the educational foundation for starting a career in psychology. In most cases, students pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology in their undergraduate studies to learn the basics of psychological theories and methodology. Other students may choose related fields such as criminal justice studies if they have an interest in pursuing forensic psychology. Additionally, those who wish to become school psychologists may choose an education-related undergraduate study.
Social sciences programs and hard sciences may provide a foundation in understanding scientific research methods and behavioral theory that are all essential in pursuing a career in psychology. It is important to note that admission requirements to enroll for undergraduate studies may vary depending on the university. Therefore, take your time to research to ensure you meet admission requirements for your university of choice.
3. Complete a master’s degree
Anyone who wants to be a psychologist must obtain a master’s degree. This typically takes between one and three years to complete depending on the depth of the coursework. Students at this level will be well prepared for their doctoral studies. Every student should complete a research thesis or a rigorous literature review to pass their master’s studies. Additionally, they are required to defend their work in a final examination.
Masters degree level training prepares professionals to work in different settings such as mental health institutions, schools and government healthcare centres. For example, master graduates may work as school counsellors, assessment psychologists, or child welfare workers. These individuals may also work as research administrators or consultants in service agencies and government institutions.
4. Consider working to gain experience
It is a good idea to gain some work experience after completing your master’s degree. Working gives you exposure to psychology work and can help you to decide which field to specialize in. Being able to determine the subfield you want to work in through experience will not only allow you to hone your professional skills but will also help you gather professional experience to secure future employment. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to meet like-minded professionals or, better yet, meet a mentor who may help you develop your career.
5. Complete a doctoral degree
Students can either pursue a PhD in experimental psychology or a PhD in clinal psychology. In general, a professional pursuing a PhD is required to complete courses and comprehension exams. Additionally, learning is focused on conducting initial research before defending their final report. Individuals who are interested in providing psychological services require at least one year of internship. For example, those pursuing a PhD program in clinical psychology will have to do a one-year internship but those who pursue a research PhD in psychology don’t need to.
PhD programs are often highly competitive to ensure students benefit from comprehensive programs. Therefore, students can increase their chances of being selected by completing internship programs, volunteering in institutions and completing their masters with high grades.
6. Consider completing a supervised experience
Clinically supervised experience varies depending on the jurisdiction you wish you practice. To find more information on the number of hours you have to complete, visit the board of psychologists in your jurisdiction. It is important to perform additional training in your area of specialization, for example, performing more clinical training in age care if you wish to work with older adults.
7. Pass oral and written exams
Providing psychological services in Canada as a registered, chartered or qualified psychologist varies depending on the province. Obtaining a doctoral and master’s degree does not necessarily mean you can practice. In addition to completing a master’s, doctoral degree and supervised work experience, you will need to pass oral and written exams with your local psychologist licensing organization to be licensed.
psychology jobs in canada salary
Average Psychologist’s Salary in Canada
The table below details the hourly wages for Psychologists.
The Canadian national occupation classification code (NOC) for this role is 4151.
Job titles and exact duties vary in this occupation and examples of some job titles are: psychologist, behavioural therapist and clinical psychologist.
According to the latest figures, the highest hourly average (median) wages are earned in Edmonton, Alberta at $48.36 per hour and the lowest average (median) wages are earned in New Brunswick at $34.02 per hour.
A typical full-time annual salary for this occupation is in the region of $70,000 – $110,000.
Employment prospects for psychologists are very good in Canada. The government forecasts that there will be too few job seekers to fill job vacancies in this profession for the near future. A doctorate degree is usually required to work in this occupation.
Average Hourly (Median) Wages for Psychologists in Canada
| Location | Low Wage $ per hr | Average Wage $ per hr | High Wage $ per hr | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary – Alberta* | 30.58 | 47.51 | 62.66 | 2019 |
| Edmonton – Alberta* | 43.50 | 48.36 | 61.79 | 2019 |
| Vancouver / Lower Mainland – British Columbia | 32.00 | 39.56 | 65.00 | 2018 |
| Winnipeg – Manitoba | 26.00 | 40.87 | 53.21 | 2018 |
| Fredericton / Oromocto – New Brunswick(1) | 15.30 | 34.02 | 61.50 | 2018 |
| Halifax – Nova Scotia(1) | 22.00 | 41.03 | 58.65 | 2018 |
| Toronto – Ontario | 20.86 | 40.00 | 69.00 | 2018 |
| Hamilton / Niagara Peninsula – Ontario(1) | 20.86 | 40.00 | 69.00 | 2018 |
| Windsor / Sarnia Area – Ontario(1) | 20.86 | 40.00 | 69.00 | 2018 |
| Kitchener / Waterloo / Barrie – Ontario(1) | 20.86 | 40.00 | 69.00 | 2018 |
| Prince Edward Island(3) | 20.00 | 40.00 | 63.00 | 2018 |
| Montreal – Quebec | 25.00 | 39.00 | 51.10 | 2018 |
| Saskatoon / Biggar – Saskatchewan | 20.00 | 49.78 | 63.35 | 2018 |
How to Get a Job in Canada as a Psychologist in 2020
As the COVID-19 lockdown continues in most countries across the globe, the effects have not only been a strain on their financial but mental well-being too. The Coronavirus pandemic has triggered an increase in anxiety as heightened media reports flood online media channels.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, every year, 1 in 5 people will have experienced some form of mental health issues. Now more than ever, people need support as the Coronavirus continues to put pressure on those who have been directly and indirectly affected by the pandemic.
If you’ve ever considered immigrating to Canada as a psychologist, now may be the time for you to start the process, and be the change that you’ve always aspired to since you chose this noble profession.
Psychologists are not only highly in-demand but are one of the highest paying jobs in Canada in 2020. As a qualified and experienced clinical psychologist, you could earn between $97,451 and $130,932 per year living and working in Canada.
Ready to start the process? Simply click the link below, complete our online contact form and one of our knowledgeable visa consultants will be in touch to guide you through the eligibility assessment process.
Need more information on what awaits you when you immigrate to Canada as a therapist of some kind? Keep reading to find out how we can help you make the move to Canada, and hopefully, find your dream job as a psychologist in the great white north.
How Can I Immigrate to Canada as a Psychologist?
As psychology is a highly skilled profession and is also in-demand, the sky’s the limit with regard to your visa options that will allow you to live and work in Canada. Psychologists living and working in Canada have access to amazing benefits, such as paid holidays, health insurance, and generous retirement plans. Want to find out how you can move to Canada as a psychologist? Below are two of the best choices for your profession.
What Are My Immigration Options?
1. Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Express Entry system is designed to help fast-track your Canadian visa application process. This system manages 3 federal economic programs, specifically:
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program,
- The Federal Trades Worker Program, and
- The Canadian Experience Class
Those with a National Occupation Classification (NOC) A or B as well as skill level 0 are eligible to apply to immigrate to Canada through the Express Entry system. These generally include management, professional and technical jobs. As a psychologist, your skill level is A, which means you pretty much qualify for most Canadian immigration programs, the fastest and most efficient of which is the Express Entry system. When you apply to immigrate to Canada as a psychologist, you could be on your way in as little as 6 months.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) has 6 main selection factors that your visa application will be based on. In order to qualify you will need to score a minimum of 67 out of a maximum of 100 points. Below are ways to claim points in each section:
| Minimum Requirements for the FSWP | ||
|---|---|---|
| Selection Factor | Minimum Requirements | Maximum Points |
| 1. age | 18 year- 46 years old | 12 |
| 2. education | Doctoral Degree (Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, British Columbia) Master’s Degree (Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut) | 25 |
| 3. Work experience | 1 year full-time paid work at skill level A | 15 |
| 4. Valid job offer | at least 1-year full-time job offer in Canada | 10 |
| 5. Language skills | minimum CLB 7 or higher (First language) | 24 |
| 6. Adaptability | Extra available points for: Your spouse or partner’s language level (CLB4 or higher) Your or your spouse’s past studies in Canada(at least 2 years of full-time academic studies) Your or your spouse’s past work in Canada(at least 1 year of full-time work) Arranged employment in Canada Relatives in Canada | 10 |
Perhaps one of the best parts of applying for a Canadian visa through the Express Entry system is that you do not require a job offer. As an Express Entry candidate, your profile will be entered into draws, usually every 2 weeks, and are ranked against other applicants according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). If you score among those with the highest CRS scores, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in Canada. Start The Process Now
2. Provincial Nominee Program Route
If you have been offered a valid job in Canada, you could apply through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Anyone can apply for permanent residence through a PNP, no matter what your skill type or level is, but it comes with one really fantastic benefit. If you apply through an Express entry linked PNP, you could be selected to receive a provincial nomination (PN). Why is a PN so beneficial to improving your chances of immigrating to Canada? It’s worth 600 extra CRS points, which will virtually guarantee that you will receive an ITA for permanent residence in Canada.
All you have to do is make sure that you express interest in your chosen province or territory when you create your Express Entry profile online and you’ve automatically upped your chances to move to Canada as a psychologist.
What Do I Need to work in Canada as a Psychologist?
As with any medical profession, there are additional requirements that you will need to meet before you can live and work in Canada as a psychologist. This includes:
- Ensure that your qualification meets the requirements of your chosen province or territory as mention in the table above;
- Complete a period of supervised practical work experience;
- Complete a written Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP);
- Oral examination and board interviews depending on your province or territory of choice;
- Register with a regulatory body;
- Be a member of the provincial professional association for psychologists, such as the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA).
