Careers in Psychology

Psychology touches every aspect of our lives, so there are a number of careers in psychology. Psychologists are scientists who use data collected both in the laboratory and in non-laboratory settings to find answers to complex individual and social issues. They study ways to help people overcome health and people work better together. They use their research to improve lives all around the world.

While they traditionally study and treat individuals with mental and emotional problems, psychologists also work with people to help them change behaviors that are having negative effects on their physical health. They work with business executives, performers and athletes to reduce stress and improve performance. They advise lawyers on jury selection and collaborate with educators on school reform. In the aftermath of a disaster such as a plane crash or bombing, psychologists help victims and bystanders recover from the trauma of the event. They team with law enforcement and public health officials, using a data-based approach to solve problems such as gun violence in communities. Most of these jobs, however, require a graduate degree.

Degrees in Psychology

Understanding psychological science and how to apply it is an asset in any career. A psychology degree, from the bachelor’s to the master’s and doctorate degree, helps employees perform in a wide variety of jobs both within and beyond the psychology discipline.

The following are the most common psychology degrees and where they can lead:

• Bachelor’s degree  — Bachelor’s degrees in psychology are offered at most colleges and universities and usually require four years of study. This degree can prepare students for the workforce or continued education. People with bachelor’s degrees in psychology can work in many fields; many find jobs in public affairs, education, business, sales, service industries, health, the biological sciences and computer programming. They may also work as employment counselors, interviewers, personnel analysts, probation officers and writers.
• Master’s degree — A master’s degree takes an additional two years of graduate-level coursework and a thesis. While people with a master’s degree can go on to earn a doctoral degree, those with several years of experience in business or industry can obtain jobs in consulting and market research, while others may find jobs in government, universities or in the private sector as counselors, researchers, data collectors and analysts. Most master’s degrees in psychology are awarded in clinical, counseling and industrial and organizational psychology.
• Doctoral degree — Doctoral degrees in psychology include the PhD, the EdD and the PsyD. Each takes about five to seven years to earn. Anyone interested in earning a doctoral degree as a pathway for a career in health services should attend an accredited institution. The PhD tends to be more of a research-focused degree, while the PsyD is designed for those who want to do clinical work. These degrees often serve as stepping stones to a range of careers in research, justice, space and aeronautics, sports and much more.

The following are job descriptions for those with a degree in psychology.