Degrees Required for Prospective Psychologists

Posted: Jul 22, 2010 |Comments: 0 |

Psychology involves the study of human behavior in varying situations and facets. Numerous sub-fields of psychology each offer a unique lens through which human behavior may be better understood. Prospective psychologists are afforded diverse career opportunities depending on the fields in which they choose to specialize. Each level of college degree allows a psychology major to work in certain sectors; those with a higher degree are often able to choose from a wider range of professions.

Bachelor's Degree

With a bachelor's degree in psychology, a student may go on to assist practicing psychologists and related professionals in a variety of settings including correctional facilities, rehabilitation offices, mental health centers and hospitals. Additional career opportunities exist in business management, customer service and sales.

Positions are available in the government sector for candidates who hold a bachelor's degree and have taken at least 24 semester hours in psychology, or who have the equivalent combination of education and experience. It can be challenging to secure one of these positions, as they are one of the few opportunities to legally work as a psychologist in the United States without a degree beyond the baccalaureate.

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Master's Degree

Beyond the bachelor's degree is the master's degree, which is commonly obtained by industrial-organizational, or IO, psychologists and clinical psychologists. Individuals holding a master's degree may also assist doctoral level psychologists in conducting research. The typical requirements for a master's degree in psychology include two years of study in a full-time graduate program, as well as hands-on experience in an applied setting and an original research project culminating in a master's thesis.

Specialist Degree (or equivalent)

A specialist degree is often pursued by individuals looking to become a school psychologist, although a doctoral degree is also available in school psychology. The typical requirements for an Ed.S, or specialist degree in school psychology, involve at least two years of graduate study in a full-time program (sixty or more graduate semester hours), as well as a full-time internship lasting about one year.  School psychologists address both the mental health and educational aspects of child development, so comprehensive training is required to become a school psychologist.

Doctoral Degree

Doctoral degrees are a typical requirement for individuals seeking independent practice as a psychologist. Two doctoral level degrees in psychology are the Ph.D. and the Psy.D. This level of education opens up a wide range of opportunities for its holder, including positions in research, teaching, counseling and clinical positions, elementary and secondary schools, health care services, government and private industry. A doctoral degree requires typically five years or more of full-time study, with comprehensive examinations and an original research dissertation as additional requirements.

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