What Can You Do with a Clinical Psychology Major?

<p>Clinical psychology is a specialty within the field of psychology. With a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, such as a Doctor of Philosophy, you could become a licensed professional and work in hospitals, private practices and other settings. A bachelor's or master's degree in psychology may prepare you for positions in counseling, guidance or research. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutPsychologists">Important Facts About Psychologists</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Analytical thinking, observation skills, interpersonal communication</td></tr> <tr><td> Similar Occupations</td><td> Mental health counselors, postsecondary teachers, social workers</td></tr> <tr><td> Median Salary (2021)</td><td> $82,510 (<i>for clinical and counseling psychologists</i>)*</td></tr> <tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 10% (<i>for clinical and counseling psychologists</i>)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---BachelorSDegree">Bachelor's Degree</h3> <p>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. <i>PayScale.com</i> 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. </p> <h3 id="section---MasterSDegree">Master's Degree</h3> <p>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, <i>Payscale.com</i> reported an hourly median wage of $21.57 for those with 1-4 years of experience holding a master's degree in clinical psychology. </p> <h3 id="section---DoctoralDegree">Doctoral Degree</h3> <p>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 <i>Payscale.com</i> in January 2023, the median wage rage for those holding a doctoral degree in clinical psychology working as a clinical psychologist was not available.</p>