For an applicant to qualify as a psychologist, what is the importance of a letter from the psychology department chair?

A letter from the psychology department chair is crucial because it serves as an official verification of the applicant’s degree completion. This confirmation is important within the context of licensing and certification requirements, as the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology mandates proof of educational qualifications before an applicant can be considered for licensure. The letter typically includes details about the degree earned, the dates of attendance, and potentially the program's accreditation status, helping to establish that the applicant has met the educational criteria necessary to practice as a psychologist.

While other elements like evidence of good moral character and professional recommendations are also important, they may come from different sources and do not specifically verify degree completion in the same way that a letter from the department chair does. Thus, this letter holds significant weight in the qualification process as a foundational element of the applicant’s credentials.