Is 45 Too Old To Get a Psychology Degree?
Pursuing a psychology degree at 45 can be very beneficial to your career by expanding your skillset. You can have a fulfilling career in the psychology industry or use your degree to excel in your current role.
No, 45 is not too old to get a psychology degree. Going back to school for a psychology degree offer students support for their emotional and social well-being. They ensure the students are progressing academically and intervene when extra help is needed. As a school psychologist, you would work with teachers and parents to ensure the school environment is safe and productive.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic psychologists work with law enforcement, helping to solve cases using psychological concepts and theories. They assess the behavior of criminals and give insight to how to treat their criminal cases.
Child Psychologist
Child psychologists work with children who are having behavioral problems and difficulties with their emotions.
There are a variety of workplaces for child psychologists:
- schools
- hospitals
- private practices
Social Worker
A social worker's job involves helping individuals who are struggling with family conflicts, addiction, poverty, and other difficult challenges. They advocate for communities and offer resources and support.
Career Counselor
Career counselors help people make informed decisions about their careers and reach their professional goals. They assess skills, interests, and strengths and help people prepare for job searches and interviews. Career counselors are often found in schools and colleges, but some have their own private practice.
FAQs About Starting a Psychology Degree at 45
Deciding to get a psychology degree at 45 can leave you with some questions. Here are some answers to common FAQs that can give you more direction when deciding to go back to school.
Are There Benefits To Starting My Psychology Degree at 45?
People can earn a psychology degree at any age and there are benefits to starting a psychology degree at 45. The American Psychology Association noted that older psychology students have an advantage due to their experience, age, and maturity. Many older adults who go back to school to earn a degree are changing careers, some even for the second time, after having time to decide on clear professional goals.
Can I Work and Go to College?
Yes, with online psychology programs, you can work and go to college at the same time. The flexibility of taking online courses to earn your degree lets you complete your degree while working. It can even be beneficial to see psychology concepts that you are learning about in real-world scenarios.
For most roles in the psychology field, your degree needs to be completed for you to qualify for a job, but you can begin working in an organization and gain experience that will open you up to career opportunities once you graduate.
Should I Go Back to School for Psychology?
If you want to make a difference working as a social worker, school psychologist, forensic psychologist, or one of the other many career options that are available to psychology graduates, then it would be a good idea to go back to school.
Having a degree is part of the qualifications that allow you to work in the field. If you work in an environment not related to psychology, going back to school for a degree can still benefit you, equipping you with skills to better understand and lead employees and coworkers.