UCI is developing an extension to UCI's MLFP program by creating a Psychological Testing Technician Certificate Program to prepare students for registration with the Board of Psychology as a Psychological Testing Technician. This effort is being developed by Dr. Elizabeth Cauffman, the Director of the Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology (MLFP) Program and the Center for Psychology and Law, and Dr. Jason Schiffman, the Director of Clinical Training in the Department of Psychological Science.
Learning Outcomes
The Psychological Testing Technician Certificate prepares recipients through coursework and hands-on training in clinical settings. Students who complete the Psychological Testing Technician Certificate will be able to:
- Administer objective psychological or neuropsychological tests
- Score objective psychological or neuropsychological tests
- Observe and describe the clients’ test behavior and test responses
Visit CA Board of Psychology for more information about program requirements.
Required Coursework
To earn the certificate, students will complete three courses offered by UCI, including:
- Psychological Assessment
- Psychological Ethics
- Practicum: Clinical Field Study
All courses require a C or better, or P, to count. (Subject to change). See the FAQs for more info.
Trainee Requirements
In addition to coursework, students are required to complete 60 hours of supervised training by a licensed CA psychologist. The supervised training would include:
- at least 20 hours of direct observation of a licensed psychologist administering and scoring tests, and
- at least 40 hours administering and scoring tests in the presence of a licensed psychologist
Priority enrollment given to graduates of the MLFP program. However, this opportunity is open to all students with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or education (specializing in educational, counseling, or school psychology). Recipients will receive a certificate upon completion of the program. Though the certificate will not appear on students' UCI transcripts, students can list this accomplishment on their resume/CV.
Training Site Requirements
Each training site has agreed to host between 1-5 students for supervision for 60 hours of direct observation (group observation is permissible for 20 of the 40 hours). In return, students commit approximately 8 hours per week for 11-22 weeks (one to two academic quarters).
In recognition of each site’s commitment to UCI Department of Psychological Science, we will also provide supervisors with UCI affiliate status.
How to Apply
Students must apply using the link below and answer all questions for consideration of the certificate administrators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this open to all majors?
No, this opportunity is open to graduates of the MLFP program or to students with a bachelor's degree in psychology or education (with specialization in educational, counseling, or school psychology).
How do I apply?
Complete the application for consideration.
Are the courses online or in person?
The two classes (Ethics and Psychological Assessment) are online and can be taken at your own pace over one quarter. The practicum is in person.
How will this help me?
Recipients can post the digital certificate on their LinkedIn page or other website and can list the certificate on their resume. Additionally, completion of this certification qualifies students for registration with the CA Board of Psychology as a licensed Psychological Testing Technician. Upon registration, students will be authorized to obtain employment opportunities as a psychological testing technician, a growing need within psychological practice.
Will this be posted on my transcript?
No. Rather, you will receive a certificate upon completion.
Are scholarships or financial aid available?
Unfortunately, financial aid and scholarships are not available for this program.
Can my training be completed virtually?
No, students' 60 hours of observation must be completed in person.
If my current job offers clinical assessments, can my work there count for certification?
The appropriateness of training credentials of staff at respective sites can be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. However, we encourage students to complete their training at UCI approved affiliate sites as the credentials of staff and agreement to adhere to training requirements has already been confirmed with these partners.
If you are already placed at a site and would like it to be considered for your practicum, please let us know. We will review the site and reach out to determine whether it meets the necessary criteria. While we will do our best to accommodate requests, we cannot guarantee site approval, as all practicum placements must meet both UCI and Board of Psychology requirements.
What is the cost of the program?
The total cost which includes two classes and the practicum is $16,000.
If I take all my courses and the practicum in one quarter, will that reduce the cost?
The program is designed to be completed in one year, but you are welcome to finish it as quickly as you like. However, the cost remains the same, as it is a flat fee.
Can I complete this certification if I have a degree in social work or cognitive sciences?
No, only a master's or bachelor's degree in psychology or education (as specified above), qualifies a student as eligible for this certification.
Can I register for these courses while still enrolled in the MLFP program?
No, because this is a separate training program, students are unable to complete these courses until their MLFP degree is complete.
Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
While there is not a specified GPA for completion of the program, students must obtain a C or better, or a passing grade in all required coursework to be eligible for certification.
If I have questions not answered, who can I contact?
Please contact our program at ptcert@uci.edu.
Where can I learn more about California's Psychological Testing Technician registration?
Please visit the CA Board of Psychology FAQ page for more information about California's Psychological Testing Technician registration.
