Psychology and PhD, opportunities

In summary, a bachelors degree in psychology is sufficient for many careers in psychology, though a PhD may be beneficial in some cases.
  • #1
biggins
10
0
Ok, so I keep hearing about how you can only do something with a psychology degree if you hold a PhD. However, I love the subject and I am aiming to get a bachelors degree in it. I am just starting college and I think I could go far in the field. I was wondering what oppurtunities are there today for fresh graduates in psychology? Even if there isn't much money out there for this degree I'd still love to take it on. Please help me!
 
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  • #2
Don't take my word for it but I think credibility counts for a lot with psychologists. Especially if you don't go all the way, you'll probably want to sound like a doctor of.
 
  • #3
As far as I know, a PhD is only required for academic positions, clinical psychology and some areas of industry (highly-technical or highly-mathematical). There are other degree's, however, such as a Psy.D degree.

My interests before switching into mathematics and physics, was neuroscience (which I was going to major in) and which I was going to pursue a PhD for (however, this is a separate field than psychology). There are also possibilites for an M.D. and even a combined M.D./PhD in some cases for those doing something related to medicine (perhaps psychiatrist). I do believe that in industry (and academia), a master’s degree is the minimum requirement to do anything worthwhile. Also, depending on your specialization (Biopsychology, Cognitive Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Behaviorism, etc.), might impact your choices more.

Check out http://www.apa.org [Broken] to get a better idea of the requirements and speak with an advisor or professor at your university.
 
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  • #4
You can use psychology in a lot of fields. Understanding human behavior is relevant in many settings, such as management and human resources.

My suggestion would be to think about what your long-term goals are. Rather than getting a degree and then figuring out what you can do with it, think ahead to what you want to do, and decide which degree makes most sense to help you achieve that. You may find that psychology alone isn't sufficient, but would strengthen your competitiveness in another field if you also had a minor or second major in that field (i.e., marketing).

Some schools may also have lists of recent graduates and what they are doing, and it might be helpful to look into those. Do they all go on to master's and Ph.D. programs, or are the getting employment in other industries that appeal to you?
 

1. What is the difference between a PhD in Psychology and a PsyD?

A PhD in Psychology is a research-based degree focused on producing original research and contributing to the field's knowledge. A PsyD, on the other hand, is a clinical degree that emphasizes practical application and training in therapeutic techniques. Both degrees can lead to careers in psychology, but their focus and approach may differ.

2. What are the career opportunities for someone with a PhD in Psychology?

Individuals with a PhD in Psychology have a variety of career opportunities, including working as a psychologist in clinical, research, or academic settings. They can also pursue careers in teaching, consulting, and program development. Additionally, many PhD graduates go on to work in fields such as health care, education, and government.

3. Can I get a PhD in Psychology without a Bachelor's degree in psychology?

While it is not impossible to get a PhD in Psychology without a Bachelor's degree in the same field, it may be more challenging. Many PhD programs in Psychology prefer applicants with a strong background in psychology, as it demonstrates a solid foundation in the subject matter. However, some programs may consider applicants with related degrees or relevant experience.

4. How long does it typically take to complete a PhD in Psychology?

The length of a PhD program in Psychology can vary depending on the individual's pace and the specific program's requirements. On average, it takes 5-7 years to complete a PhD in Psychology, including coursework, research, and dissertation writing. Some programs may offer accelerated options, while others may allow for part-time study.

5. What are some potential challenges of pursuing a PhD in Psychology?

Pursuing a PhD in Psychology can be a challenging and demanding endeavor. Some potential challenges include the rigorous coursework, the time commitment required for research and dissertation writing, and the competitive nature of the field. Additionally, the cost of tuition and living expenses may also be a challenge for some individuals. It is important to carefully consider these factors before committing to a PhD program in Psychology.

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