Got a Psychology Degree?
Lots of people choose to pursue a psychology degree in school, usually because it’s so accessible and covers a broad range of topics. However, jobs for this degree can be few and far between, and you’ll probably face tough competition too. That’s why you’ll want to specialize for the specific career you want. Luckily, a psychology degree makes a great basis for any of these careers!
1. Chartered Psychologist
A chartered psychologist is an expert professional who works with people of all ages, from all walks of life, to understand and assess their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. They offer expert advice and support to help with psychological issues. A chartered psychologist may specialize in a particular field such as occupational, educational, sport, or mental health psychology. Becoming a chartered psychologist takes further study and training, over and above a psychology degree, to achieve professional qualification.
2. Psychotherapist
A psychotherapist works with individuals, couples, groups, or families to overcome a range of psychological problems, which can include emotional issues, relationship challenges, stress, or addiction. Psychotherapists may be trained in several different approaches to treatment, which can include cognitive behavioral, psychoanalytic, art, or others, depending on the practitioner's specific training and areas of focus. This career involves working with clients to better their mental health through a number of treatment techniques.
3. Social Worker
A social worker is a person who assists individuals and groups of people who have difficulty coping with challenging life circumstances, including children, the elderly, disabled people, or those who have been abused. They work to protect vulnerable people from being hurt and to help them get the assistance they need to live better lives. Social workers typically work in schools, hospitals, or community organizations.
4. Counselor
A counselor allows a person to talk about their feelings and emotions, and provides information that will help an individual to accept and cope with a given life experience. A counselor is someone who offers a person a confidential and supportive setting while using their active listening skills, empathy, and patience to help a client make well-informed decisions. Counselors deal with a vast range of family, mental health, career, grief, and rehabilitation.
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5. Teacher
Psychology graduates can become teachers, either in primary, secondary, or tertiary education. This often requires an additional teaching qualification. They can work directly with students, delivering lessons and supporting their learning in a range of subjects, including psychology.
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6. Professor
In order to be a professor in the field of psychology, graduates will often be required to obtain master's and doctorate degrees. In addition to possessing specific skill sets in the academic discipline, these individuals are able to have an academic career by demonstrating a dedication to teaching and research. Professors are able to teach in colleges and universities, and in addition to performing this instructive duty, they are also able to conduct original research.
7. Educational Psychologist
Educational psychologists are required to have the same qualifications as all other psychologists, including a master's degree and additional training. They work to support the development of young people in educational environments, addressing learning difficulties, social challenges, and emotional issues. Their goal is to improve learning experiences and promote well-being in schools and other learning settings.
8. Researcher
Careers in psychology research can be found in universities, research agencies, public and private organizations, or non-profit groups. Psychologists who work at universities often engage in both teaching and performing original research in order to expand knowledge in the field. Graduates may be well-suited to lend their expertise to a specific policy, an industry dilemma, or social issue.
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9. Advertising
Careers in media, advertising, and marketing provide many opportunities for psychology graduates to apply their knowledge of human behavior and analytical skills to practical business settings. Psychology graduates may be able to offer valuable insights into audience preferences. This in turn can inform decisions related to content development, marketing strategies, and communication efforts.
10. Human Resources
Careers in human resources and communications are popular among psychology graduates since they are both in the area of people's behavior and way of thinking. Human resources and communications roles are found in both the public and private sector and focus on, among other things, employee satisfaction, recruiting, training, professional development, and internal and external communications. Psychology graduates are also in demand in these fields to help analyze the workplace and how things are done.
11. Business Management
Business and management careers are an excellent fit for psychology graduates because of their understanding of human behavior and data analysis. While these careers may require additional training and experience for managerial positions, graduates can start in a number of entry-level roles in business consultancy, marketing, sales, advertising, or business development. These roles can help build experience and skills for leadership and management positions in the future.
12. Community Worker
A community worker assists individuals and groups in local communities, helping them improve their lives and access necessary services. They work to address social issues, provide support and guidance, and connect people to resources to help them overcome challenges. Psychology graduates can be effective advocates and supporters in community work, as they have skills in understanding behavior and communication.
13. Childcare Worker
A childcare worker looks after and supports the development of young children in a nursery, preschool, or a childminder's home. They provide a safe and nurturing environment that encourages learning, social skills, and emotional development. Psychology graduates are ideally suited to this role through their ability to understand and apply their knowledge of child development and behavior.
14. Correctional Officer
A correctional officer oversees and controls prisoners or juvenile delinquents in a jail or juvenile detention center. Responsibilities include maintaining safety and order, preventing incidents, and aiding in the rehabilitation of offenders. Psychology graduates are well-suited for this role due to their understanding of behavior management and conflict resolution.
15. Immigration Officer
An immigration officer reviews and processes visa applications, border security, and the movement of people between countries. They uphold immigration laws while balancing security concerns and humanitarian needs. Psychology graduates apply skills in understanding cultural backgrounds, behavior assessment, and informed decision-making in interviews and evaluations.
16. Program Coordinator
A program coordinator typically plans, organizes, and manages projects or initiatives within organizations. They ensure that programs run smoothly, on time, and within budget, and meet their goals. Program coordinators often work in sectors like healthcare, education, non-profit, or community services.
17. Travel Agent
A travel agent assists clients in planning and booking travel by advising on destinations, accommodations, and transport options. They leverage their knowledge of client preferences and decision-making to offer tailored travel solutions. Psychology graduates can use their expertise in communication and customer service to effectively understand clients’ needs.
18. Technical Writer
A technical writer is responsible for creating well-written, organized, and concise technical documents such as manuals, guides, and other educational/instructional content. They are skilled at taking complex topics and making them easily understood by people of all reading abilities. Psychology graduates are good analytical communicators who understand how to present information so that it is user-friendly.
19. Sales Representative
A sales representative is a professional responsible for selling products or services to customers. This role involves identifying and understanding customer needs, building relationships, and effectively communicating and persuading potential buyers. Psychology graduates can use their understanding of human behavior and motivations to connect with clients, build relationships, and adapt their sales strategies.
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20. Mental Health Worker
A mental health worker assists those in psychological distress, offering support and practical help. Collaborating with healthcare teams, they aid clients in managing mental health and enhancing well-being. Psychology graduates apply knowledge of mental conditions and strong communication skills to provide empathetic care and encourage recovery.