Important Facts About Psychologists
| Key Skills | Analytical thinking, observation skills, interpersonal communication |
| Similar Occupations | Mental health counselors, postsecondary teachers, social workers |
| Median Salary (2021) | $82,510 (for clinical and counseling psychologists)* |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 10% (for clinical and counseling psychologists)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Bachelor's Degree
If you obtain a bachelor's degree in clinical psychology, you may find jobs assisting licensed psychologists. You can also find employment in other fields, such as business administration, sales or education. PayScale.com reported a median hourly wage of $23.92 for those with a clinical psychology bachelor's degree and 1-4 years of experience in January 2023.
Master's Degree
With a clinical psychology master's degree, you are prepared to work in education or research positions. Like with a bachelor's degree, a master's degree will also allow you to work as an assistant to a licensed clinical psychologist. You can also work as a psychological therapy practitioner, but you must be supervised by a licensed psychologist. In January 2023, Payscale.com reported an hourly median wage of $21.57 for those with 1-4 years of experience holding a master's degree in clinical psychology.
Doctoral Degree
A doctoral degree in clinical psychology is required for licensure as a psychologist. Types of doctoral programs include a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.). As a clinical psychologist, you can set up a private practice, work as an educator or practice in a hospital or other institutional setting. If you have a doctorate in clinical psychology, you can work directly with patients who have histories of trauma or acute mental disorder. According to Payscale.com in January 2023, the median wage rage for those holding a doctoral degree in clinical psychology working as a clinical psychologist was not available.
