Getting a Bachelors Degree in Psychology
Obtaining a psychology bachelor’s degree may provide a broad introduction to the psychology field. Most psychology degree programs are designed to offer a well-rounded education that prepares students for employment in a variety of fields related to psychology or other areas that are unrelated to psychology. Some students pursue a psychology bachelor’s degree with plans to do postgraduate work.
Psychology Degree Courses
Typically, psychology degree programs include courses that examine a variety of psychology disciplines. Some psychology programs offer developmental, social, and cognitive psychology courses in addition to other coursework. Students receive an introduction to and history of psychology by studying various theories and the prominent psychologists that have advanced the field through research.
A psychology degree is can be a good choice for students who plan to attend graduate school in psychology, medicine, or the law. General education courses along with a minor in a different field are usually required for pursuing postgraduate work in other areas.
Career Options with a Psychology Bachelors Degree
Many students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology have plans to work in the human or social services field. Some may work as career counselors in a technical or vocational school. Others may provide case management services for a government agency or nonprofit organization. Additional career options may include a psychiatric technician or a rehabilitation specialist. Still, others will enter completely unrelated fields, but spent their undergraduate years pursuing a degree in a field they found interesting and fulfilling.
Those who choose to work in the psychology field will typically need skills in working with people. Careers in psychology may require accurate recordkeeping, an ability to assess the needs of clients, and an ability to demonstrate empathy and compassion. Some careers involve advocacy work for clients.
Some graduates of a bachelor’s degree program may pursue post-graduate work for a master’s degree or Ph.D. in psychology. Advanced degrees enable students to become practicing psychologists. Those with a master’s degree may work in counseling centers or clinics that have programs for specific groups. Doctoral degrees may lead to work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, and teaching.
Career Foundation of Psychology Degrees
In addition to human or social services jobs, graduates who possess a psychology degree may also qualify for other jobs that require some level of human interaction. In general, psychology degree programs provide a foundation for careers that might not directly relate to psychology. Undergraduate coursework that focuses on understanding human behavior and thinking patterns may help to enhance a student’s interpersonal skills. Some students might pursue careers in human resources, business management, social work, or sales.
