A background in psychology provides a strong base for a surprisingly wide array of career paths. Individuals with a psychology education can find themselves working directly with people in need, contributing to important research, or even applying their knowledge within the legal system. The field offers diverse opportunities for those fascinated by human behavior. Here are 13 potential jobs you can get with a psychology degree:
- Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists (OTs) focus on helping individuals who are struggling with everyday tasks due to disabilities, injuries, illnesses, or other limiting conditions. They work in various settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and people’s homes, aiming to improve both physical abilities and mental well-being. A psychology background is quite relevant here, as OTs consider the psychological aspects of their patients’ challenges. Further education, such as a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree, is typically the next step after a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapists (PTs) work to improve people’s movement and manage their pain. They treat individuals recovering from injuries or dealing with ongoing health problems. Physical therapists can be found working in places like home healthcare services, outpatient clinics, and within individual and family service settings. Becoming a physical therapist requires completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
- Speech-Language Pathology: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), sometimes called speech therapists, help people of all ages who have communication difficulties, whether they are physical or cognitive in nature. SLPs work to improve speech, language, and even swallowing skills. A psychology degree is a good starting point, as understanding human behavior and communication is crucial. SLPs can find jobs in schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and in private practice. A Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) degree is necessary.
- Physician Assistant: Physician assistants (PAs) provide medical care to patients, working under the supervision of physicians. A psychology degree provides a useful science-based foundation for understanding how people function and how their behavior changes when they are dealing with illnesses, injuries, or other health problems. PAs work in many different places, including medical offices, hospitals, outpatient centers, and even in educational or government settings. A Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) degree is what you’ll need.
- Health Psychology: Health psychologists study how biological, social, and psychological factors all play a role in health, illness, and chronic conditions. They try to understand the root causes of health problems and address any behavioral side effects. Health psychologists might work in private practices, hospitals, or primary care programs. This career path usually involves a bachelor’s and then a master’s degree in psychology. Many go on to earn a PhD or PsyD if they want to practice clinically.
- Child Psychology: Child psychologists provide mental health care to children and teenagers. They assess and treat behavioral, developmental, and emotional problems. Child psychologists consider many factors, such as brain development, genetics, and how children adapt socially and learn language. Becoming a child psychologist usually requires a doctoral degree (either a PhD or a PsyD).
- Counseling Psychology: When people think of a psychology career, they often think of counseling psychology. Counseling psychologists work with people facing a wide range of challenges, from crises and trauma to the effects of discrimination. They use various therapeutic techniques to improve people’s mental well-being. A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is typically required for this profession.
- Clinical Psychology: Clinical psychologists work with individuals who are experiencing psychological and emotional conditions like depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. They evaluate a person’s mental state, provide diagnoses, and offer different kinds of treatment to lessen symptoms and improve mental health. Clinical psychologists work with people of all ages and backgrounds in many different settings, such as counseling centers, private practices, hospitals, and schools. A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is generally needed.
- Substance Abuse Counseling: Substance abuse counselors help people who are struggling with addiction or other behavioral problems. They offer strategies and support to help people break free from addiction and stay sober. These counselors often work in healthcare settings like hospitals, inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, and sometimes even in correctional facilities. A bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field might be enough, but some states require a master’s degree for clinical practice.
- Marriage and Family Counseling: Marriage and family counselors work with couples and families to identify and treat problems in their relationships. They can help people deal with things like divorce, marital difficulties, issues between family members, and major life changes. They might work in individual and family service agencies, outpatient clinics, or private practices. A master’s degree in psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related mental health field is usually the minimum requirement.
- Forensic Psychology: Forensic psychologists work at the intersection of psychology and the legal system. They study criminal behavior and provide psychological evaluations in legal contexts, such as police departments, prisons, and courts. They might be called upon to testify in court. A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is usually required to become a licensed forensic psychologist.
- School Counseling: School counselors work in schools to support students’ success. They help students with their behavior, communication skills, motivation, goal setting, and social skills. The specific duties of a school counselor can vary depending on the grade level. A master’s degree in school counseling is typically the standard requirement.
- Psychiatry: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists, they can prescribe medication. They work in many different settings, including hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation programs, and nursing homes. Becoming a psychiatrist requires a medical degree (MD or DO) and then a residency in psychiatry
