Is a Psychology Degree Right for Me?

Those of you seeking a degree in psychology will want to know if the degree is right for you. Thankfully, the area of psychology is vast, allowing you to learn about numerous psychology programs needed for your degree. When choosing a psychology degree, examine the various psychology careers available.

What To Consider Before You Pursue a Psychology Degree

Before you pursue a psychology degree, you'll want to consider several aspects of your life. If you have the skill and passion needed to succeed in this degree field, psychology may be right for you.

Your Career and Life Goals

If you have a high school diploma and are considering career options such as psychology, you must first attend a university to achieve a bachelor's or master's degree. Your career path may lead you to numerous psychology jobs and related fields including:

• clinical psychology
• developmental psychology
• forensic psychology
• industrial psychology
• organizational psychology
• educational psychology

These career opportunities may be available to you depending on your life goals.

Your Skills

Another important aspect in determining if a psychology degree is right for you is your skillset. Those interested in psychology should have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, needed skills include knowledge of human service and social science. Truly understanding the human mind is imperative.

Your Passions

If your passion is to help those struggling with mental health issues, you may have a career goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. Your passions may extend to learning about human behavior. Understanding human behavior is a crucial aspect of psychology.

Your Values

If you wish to help those with health issues, becoming a psychologist or psychiatrist can provide the mental healthcare needed for patients and the value you need in your life. Your values may include a better understanding of the human mind, and helping others along the way.

Your Financial Situation

If you can, consider attending a university to achieve an undergraduate degree. Those without funds can consider financial aid options.

For instance, you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine eligibility. You may potentially qualify for grants or loans. College can become more affordable with financial aid options.

What Is a Psychology Degree?

A person studies behavior, emotion, and cognition in a psychology degree. This includes brain development as well as brain function and environmental factors. Many careers require a completed master's program or advanced degree. Doctoral degrees are available depending on the area of psychology you consider.

What To Expect From a Psychology Degree

With a psychology graduate degree, you will have the ability to apply to numerous jobs. There are various career paths for you to consider. Whether you seek to have your private practice or choose a role in the human resources department of a company, a psychology degree program can help open doors for you.

Career Paths Available for Psychology Majors

There are various career paths for psychology majors. You can pursue more jobs once you've received licensure and completed a graduate program.

Clinical Psychologist

As a clinical psychologist, you must pass various tests and continue to renew your license throughout your career. As a clinical psychologist, you can help those suffering from mental illness by incorporating psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other therapy options.

As a mental health counselor, you can use your skills to help others. Your clients may suffer from certain mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or bipolar disorder. As a clinical psychologist with an extensive background in counseling, you can help provide the care those suffering need. Additionally, you can help groups of people in family or group therapy sessions.

Guidance Counselor

As a counseling psychologist, you may choose to work in a school setting. School psychologists can work at an elementary school, high school, or college university. Additionally, there are other instances where a guidance counselor is necessary. Young adults in school may require crucial advice and assistance to help them determine their career path.

Playing a part in the success of students you assist can fuel your passion and coincide with your values.

Forensic Psychologist

A forensic psychologist focuses on the relationship between law and psychology. As a forensic psychologist, you may work at a law firm, prison, or police department. Those interested in legal issues which overlap with psychology should consider the job of a forensic psychologist. Within the criminal justice system, a forensic psychologist may utilize methods to answer questions proposed by the legal system.

Developmental Psychologist

If you're interested in working with children, youth, or seniors, consider a job as a developmental psychologist. With developmental psychology, you can consider options such as social work. As a social worker, you will provide resources for those in need. You will also offer support and services to assist people with developmental issues.

Organizational Psychologist

Psychology students may choose to become an organizational psychologist. Organizational psychology places a focus on human behavior in the workplace. Organizational psychologists consider the needs of a business and its employees.