What are the Different Specialty Areas in Psychology?:
There are numerous specialty areas in psychology, offering a wide range of career options. Some fields concentrate on research, while others focus on practical applications of psychological principles. Specific specialty areas in psychology include clinical psychology, educational psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and social psychology. You can learn more in this article: Specialty Areas in Psychology
What do Psychologists Do?:
Psychologists work in a wide range of professional areas. Mental health, academics, and research are just some of the major areas of interest a psychologist might pursue. Many psychologists also work in applied settings like ergonomics and human factors. Psychologists are also well suited to work in business, government, education, and mental health. You can learn more in this article: The Nature of Psychology Work
Where Do Psychologists Work?:
The working conditions of psychologists vary widely depending on the area of employment. Many psychologists work at colleges and universities, while others work in prisons, hospitals, or private practices. Some work individually with clients, while other treat patients with a team of professionals. You can learn more in this article: Working Conditions of Psychologists
How Much Do Psychologists Earn?:
While a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that psychology graduates had the lowest starting pay of any field ($30,000), earnings and salaries of psychologists vary widely depending on education level, experience, and specialization. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the middle 50% of psychologists earn between $41,850 and $71,880. You can learn more in this article: Earnings and Salaries of Psychologists
What are the Educational and Training Requirements for Psychologists?:
The required preparation for a career in psychology depends largely on which specialty area you are interested in. There are a number of career options available for those with doctoral, master's, and bachelor’s degrees in psychology. You can learn more about training requirements in this article: Training and Qualifications of Psychologists
What is the Job Outlook for Psychology Careers?:
According to the U.S. Deptarment of Labor, employment for psychologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012. Clinical psychologists, school psychologists, and industrial-organizational psychologist will be in high demand. Find more information on which specialty areas are expected to grow the fastest in this article: Job Outlook for Psycholgists
What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?:
While those with an undergraduate degree do not have all of the job options available to those with a master's or doctorate in psychology, there are many entry-level jobs for college graduates with a bachelor's degree. An undergraduate education in psychology helps students develop skills that are important in a variety of careers. Learn how your skills can help you in your job search in this article: Careers with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
What Can I Do With a Graduate Degree in Psychology?:
Graduates with a master's or doctoral-level degree in psychology will find that career choices are wide and varied. As access to mental health care increases, the demand for trained therapists and clinicians rises as well. Others may find employment in business, education, or government. Learn potential career options in this article: Careers with a Graduate Degree in Psychology
Which Psychology Career Is Right for Me?:
If you are considering a career in psychology, it is important to first assess your interests, talents and needs. Psychology is a diverse field with a wide range of career options, so a little planning now can help you find a specialty area that is perfect for you. Take the Psychology Career Quiz to learn more about some of the careers that might interest you.
How Can I Learn More About Careers in Psychology?:
If you're considering a career in psychology, it is a good idea to consider your options before you decide on an educational path, graduate degree program, or specialty area. The following resources can help you learn more about possible career choices in psychology:
- Before You Choose a Psychology Major
If you are thinking of majoring in psychology, you should carefully consider your personal interests, career goals, and future plans before you decide. - Before You Choose a Graduate School in Psychology
There are several important factors you should consider before you decide if graduate school in psychology is the right choice for you. Here are just a few things to think about before you decide. - Psychology Career Profiles
There are a number of specialty areas within psychology. Learn more about some of these careers including school psychology, forensic psychology, and clinical psychology.
