The article characterizes one of the priority tasks of modern higher education, the problem of studying the professional thinking of student psychologists. In this article, the authors considered the concept of professional thinking, gives a description of the level of development of professional thinking of students-psychologists. On the basis of a situational analysis, the most important characteristics of creative professional thinking are established, such as levels, types, structure, functions, properties, principles, mechanisms, patterns, indicators of professional creative thinking. The authors present the basic types of thinking. It is emphasized that the product of professional thinking is the removal of problems and the resolution of a specific situation, which carries with it a generalized mode of action or technique. The authors note that during the period of vocational training, not only the accumulation of knowledge and development of skills of students in the chosen specialty takes place, but also the interest in the future profession deepens, an idea of professionally important qualities necessary for future activities is formed. The analysis of the problem of professional thinking from various modern positions is given. Developed professional thinking is an important component of student competence. The article presents the results of a diagnostic study of the thinking of third-year psychology students. The criteria for the development of professional thinking are described. The data obtained in the diagnostic study allow us to formulate a number of assumptions and outline ways for further research.