[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A psychology degree prepares you for roles in human services, criminal justice, business, marketing, and education, or advanced studies in counseling, therapy, or psychology.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical jobs include human resources specialist, market analyst, substance use counselor, or school counselor, depending on your degree level.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Salaries range from $59,190 for mental health counselors to $159,660 for marketing managers. Clinical psychologists earn a median of $95,830, according to BLS data.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-flex] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What jobs can you get with a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/psychology-degree/”]psychology degree[/hen-ui-link]? It’s a common question for psych majors. Studying deviant behavior, the psychology of personalities, and the decision-making process in your psychology program can be fascinating.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your understanding of human behavior and strong research and analytical skills can lead to careers in various industries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-base uppercase” tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Reality Check: What Jobs Can I Get With A Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If your goal is to find a job in the field of psychology (or more broadly, the social sciences), you can pursue a career in substance use counseling, human services management, or criminal justice with a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-psychology/”]bachelor’s degree in psychology[/hen-ui-link]. However, many pscy grads also find jobs in industries outside of psychology. With a background in human behavior, you may also qualify for entry-level business roles in marketing, advertising, and public relations.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Jobs Can You Get With a Psychology Degree​?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A psychology degree can prepare you for careers in mental health, business, human services, marketing, and education. You can work as a counselor, training and development specialist, or PR specialist with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. You can also become a therapist or psychologist with an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-psychology/”]advanced psychology degree[/hen-ui-link].How much you can earn with a psychology degree depends on your degree level, job title, and industry. Psychology majors can earn higher salaries with a graduate degree and professional experience. Some fields, such as marketing, pay higher salaries than others, such as human services.[/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]20 Career Paths With a Psychology Degree[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Jobs for Psychology Majors[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Typical Degree Level Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Outlook[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-and-human-service-assistants.htm” target=”_blank”]Social and Human Service Assistant[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$45,120[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]Training and Development Specialist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$65,850[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+12%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/reporters-correspondents-and-broadcast-news-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]News Analyst, Reporter, and Journalist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$60,280[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]-3%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$159,660[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm” target=”_blank”]Market Research Analyst[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$76,950[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/public-relations-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]Public Relations Specialist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$69,780[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/human-resources-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]Human Resources Specialist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$72,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm” target=”_blank”]Human Resources Manager[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$140,030[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/technical-writers.htm” target=”_blank”]Technical Writer[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$91,670[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/rehabilitation-counselors.htm” target=”_blank”]Substance Use Counselor[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$46,110[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+2%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm” target=”_blank”]Psychology Teacher (Secondary)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$64,580[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]-1%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Forensic_Psychologist/Salary” target=”_blank”]Forensic Psychologist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$79,540*[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]N/A[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]Marriage and Family Therapist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$63,780[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+16%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm#tab-1″ target=”_blank”]Licensed Mental Health Counselor[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$59,190[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+19%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm” target=”_blank”]School and Career Counselor and Advisor[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$65,140[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]School Psychologist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$86,930[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+1%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]I/O Psychologist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$109,840[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]Clinical Psychologist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$95,830[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+13%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Jobs for Psychology Majors”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]Psychology Professor[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Typical Degree Level Required”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]$80,330[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Outlook”]+5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]20 Careers for Degrees in Psychology: A Deeper Dive[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Think broadly about what kind of job you can get with a psychology degree. Your critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills can lead to [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/business-jobs/”]job opportunities in business[/hen-ui-link], counseling, psychology and counseling, and academia.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Below, we’ll explore 20 psychology careers ranging from a high school diploma to a doctorate. Because there are many different fields and career paths related to psychology, we’ve broken these careers down into four groups of occupations:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”number”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#business”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Business and Management Careers[/hen-ui-text](5)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#communications”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Communications Careers [/hen-ui-text](3)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#psychology”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Psychology, Counseling, and Human Services Careers [/hen-ui-text](9)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#academia”][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Academia and Research [/hen-ui-text](3)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”business”]1. Business and Management Careers With a Psych Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychology classes about human motivations and group dynamics can be great preparation for a career in human resources, marketing, or training and development. You’ll draw on your psychology degree to recruit top candidates, determine an organization’s training needs, and improve workforce morale.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $159,660[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a psychology major, you know why people act the way they do, which can make you valuable in marketing and advertising departments. Hiring managers may see that you bring a deep understanding of human behavior, motivation, and decision-making to your work and consider you for an analytical or [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/marketing-manager/”]leadership role in marketing[/hen-ui-link] or advertising.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Human Resources Manager[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $140,030[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a psychology major, you hold a deep understanding of human behavior and strong assessment and evaluation skills, making you a potentially effective human resources manager.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These professionals lead talent management departments, recruiting, training, and developing team members and managing complex interpersonal relationships. If you are interested in this career, consider specializing in industrial or organizational psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Human Resources Specialist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $72,910[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A human resources specialist may work in talent acquisition, recruiting new corporate professionals, or general human resources work, such as employee relations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a psychology degree can give you the perfect blend of soft skills and scientific understanding of how people work, positioning you to enter this career. If you’re interested in working as an HR specialist, consider focusing your psychology coursework on employee or labor relations or minoring in business.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Market Research Analyst[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $76,950[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Market research analysts assess factors that affect customer purchasing decisions. Your psychology degree could give you the assessment and evaluation tools, along with the insight into customer behavior that companies need in this role.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you plan on becoming a market research analyst, consider adding a minor in business, statistics, and research, or focusing your psychology major on research.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Training and Development Specialist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $65,850[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Training and development specialists create and execute training programs for organizations and businesses. As a psychology major, you’ll learn many of the key skills this role demands, such as how people learn, what motivates human behavior, why people change, and how to assess learning.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you want to work in corporate training, consider fleshing out your psychology degree with coursework in communication or education.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”communications”]2. Communication Careers With a Psych Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Communications careers require a strong understanding of human behavior and motivations. Apply your coursework in research, consumer behavior, and social psychology to communicate brand and client messages, educate consumers, and produce effective technical writing.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] ​​$60,280[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Journalists help keep the public up to date on significant events. While many aspiring journalists pursue a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/communications-degree/”]communications degree[/hen-ui-link], your psychology degree could also position you for this career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your analytical skills, combined with your knowledge about motivation and behavior, can give you unique insights into newsworthy people and events. As part of your psychology degree, you may want to take writing or public speaking courses and do an internship with a local media outlet.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Public Relations Specialist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $69,780[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Public relations specialists represent companies, schools, hospitals, or other organizations to the public. They position their organization in the best possible light for most audiences.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a psychology major, you’ll bring strong skills in research, analysis, and communication to a public relations career. If working in public relations is your ambition, you may want to add coursework in public relations or marketing to your psychology degree.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Technical Writer[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $91,670[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Technical writers craft detailed information on complex and technical subjects, such as developing instructional manuals and supporting documents. These professionals may work in any industry, but they are often found in engineering or scientific fields.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a psychology background, you should have the communication, analysis, and strategic thinking skills to be a technical writer. For this career, you may want to emphasize research and statistics as part of your psychology major.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”psychology”]3. Psychology, Counseling, and Human Services Careers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychology majors pursue diverse roles in the human services field, including in social work and counseling.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While many roles require a graduate degree, an undergraduate degree in psychology can lead to opportunities as a substance use counselor or social service assistant. Coursework in community psychology, the psychology of addiction, and program development helps prepare you for these career paths.Many psychology majors pursue an advanced degree to [hen-ui-link href=”/psychology/how-to-become-a-psychologist/”]become psychologists[/hen-ui-link]. If you’re wondering what kind of job you can get with a psychology degree at the graduate level, there are plenty of options.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Social and Human Service Assistants[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $45,120[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Associate degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social and human service assistants collaborate with social workers and other community service leaders to provide support for families and neighborhoods. These professionals may work for healthcare, local government, or nonprofit community organizations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychology can be an ideal major for social and human service assistants, particularly if you are considering adding on a master’s degree in social work. However, you may want to minor in political science or a related field to gain a broader social perspective.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Substance Use Counselors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $46,110[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Substance use counselors (bachelor’s), master’s for full scope[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Substance use counselors help clients with addiction disorders to modify their thinking and behavior in order to lead more fulfilling lives. Depending on their state and scope of practice, these c[hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-substance-abuse-counseling/”]ounselors may need a master’s degree[/hen-ui-link] and licensure. However, many states allow you to do limited substance use counseling with a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Since psychology is the study of human behavior, it directly points to a career in substance use counseling. Adding the appropriate master’s degree or licensure could quickly get you employed in this fast-growing field.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Clinical and Counseling Psychologists[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $95,830[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Doctorate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While psychologists treat various mental health conditions, they differ from psychiatrists in that they cannot prescribe medication in most states. Instead, they typically assess and diagnose mental health conditions, create treatment plans, and offer treatment through counseling and support programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The largest psychologist employers include schools, healthcare services, and the government. Psychologists are also commonly self-employed in private practice.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]School Psychologist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $86,930[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School psychologists work closely with students, teachers, and administrators to improve schools. They help students manage behavioral or educational issues while implementing programs to address school-wide issues. School psychologists need a master’s degree or doctorate; most states also require a state-issued license to work in public schools.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Industrial-Organizational Psychologists[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $109,840[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Industrial-organizational psychologists specialize in workplace issues, including employee retention, recruitment, training, and motivation. They use psychological principles to help organizations improve their human resources and administrative processes.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These psychologists work in diverse business settings and require a master’s degree. Most states and employers do not require industrial-organizational psychologists to hold licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Marriage and Family Therapists[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $63,780[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Marriage and family therapists help couples and families overcome various challenges. They assist clients using talk therapy and behavioral intervention strategies and provide access to different services and resources. These therapists usually work in family services, health practitioner offices, and outpatient centers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]School and Career Counselors and Advisors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $65,140[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School counselors and advisors assist students and their families with various educational issues and challenges. They may help students enter behavioral or educational support programs, educate and advise students, or assist learners in identifying postsecondary pathways. Most counselors work in elementary or secondary schools and junior colleges. School counselors often need a background in education and certification.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Forensic Psychologist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-text]: $79,540[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Forensic psychologists use their knowledge and skills in psychology to serve the community through civil or criminal justice. They may testify as expert witnesses, provide insight into offenders’ motivations, or design programs for behavior modification in correctional systems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Generally, you need a four-year degree in psychology plus a master’s degree to do forensic or correctional counseling. To work directly with high-needs incarcerated individuals, you would need a Ph.D. or Psy.D.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Licensed Mental Health Counselors[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $59,190[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mental health counselors support individuals and groups in managing psychological conditions, including anxiety and depression. They may help couples work on relationship problems or counsel individuals on emotional and behavioral issues. To practice, mental health counselors need a state-issued license and a master’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”academia”]4. Academia and Research Careers With a Pysch Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/doctorate/best-online-doctorate-psychology/”]Doctorate psychology degrees [/hen-ui-link]can lead to positions in academia and research. You could teach at the community college or liberal arts college level, or you could lead a research team at a major university.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Psychology Postsecondary Teachers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $80,330[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Doctorate in psychology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Postsecondary teachers instruct classes in their specialization, conduct research, and publish their work in the field. Most psychology professors work in private and state colleges and universities. Among all teaching disciplines, psychology ranks among the 10 largest.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Psychology Teacher (Secondary)[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text] $55,220[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Bachelor’s or master’s degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]High schools need psychology teachers. In this role, you develop curriculum, provide instruction, and assess student learning. You may also serve on school committees and participate in student life.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to a psychology major, you need a teaching license, which you can acquire with a secondary education minor or through an alternative certification program in your state.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Research Psychologist[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Median Annual Salary (2024):[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Minimum Education Required:[/hen-ui-text] Doctorate in psychology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A research psychologist conducts research on human behavior, motivation, and development. They may seek to answer questions such as: Does multitasking impair working memory performance in adults aged 25-40? How does childhood trauma affect brain development?[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Research psychologists could work in universities, laboratories, or government agencies. Becoming a research psychologist requires a bachelor’s degree plus a doctorate in psychology and state licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Degree Jobs and Career Paths[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do you need a psychology degree to be a therapist?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You cannot become a therapist with a psychology degree. Instead, you need a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-counseling/”]master’s degree in counseling[/hen-ui-link], along with a specialization in the [hen-ui-link href=”/counseling/counselor-vs-therapist/”]type of counseling (or therapy[/hen-ui-link]) you want to provide. For example, a focus on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-family-counseling/”]marriage and family therapy[/hen-ui-link], along with licensure in your state, allows you to become an LMFT.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The one exception to this is becoming a counseling psychologist. A [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]doctorate in counseling[/hen-ui-link] psychology can help qualify you for a career as a counseling psychologist, who acts much like a therapist but focuses on psychosis, personality disorders, and neuropsychological testing.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You cannot become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree. Since a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health, you need an MD or DO degree to enter that profession. You can choose an undergraduate major in psychology, pursue your medical degree, and eventually become a licensed psychiatrist.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Alternatively, some states now designate specially trained psychologists as “prescribing psychologists.” These professionals hold a doctorate in psychology and additional training in psychopharmacology. They can prescribe a limited number of medications.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What can you do with a forensic psychology degree​?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-forensic-psychology/”]bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology[/hen-ui-link] could qualify you to serve as a probation officer or victim advocate. Higher-paying forensic psychology positions demand advanced degrees. You need a master’s degree to serve as a correctional counselor or research assistant. To be a forensic psychologist requires a Ph.D. or Psy.D. and state licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What can I do with an associate’s degree in psychology?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in psychology can serve as the first step toward a bachelor’s degree. It can also equip you to apply for a job as a correctional officer, human resources assistant, or social services assistant. In some states, you may qualify to do substance use counseling or youth counseling with a limited scope of practice.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What are the highest-paying jobs with a psychology degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm” target=”_blank”]According to the BLS[/hen-ui-link], psychologists earned a median salary of $94,310 as of May 2024. Specialists such as neuropsychologists and research directors could earn more. However, these jobs require a Ph.D. or Psy.D.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nevertheless, licensed marriage and family therapists, who need at least a master’s degree, made a median salary of $63,780 in 2024. With a bachelor’s in psychology, the highest-paying jobs include marketing manager, human resources manager, and market research analyst.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1330,350″][/hen-ui-article-row]