jobs for phd in psychology

10 PhD in Psychology Jobs

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Careers in psychology can last for decades, so you definitely want to pick the right path before you get started.

Psychology is a huge field, and jobs after a PhD in psychology cover a huge spectrum of interests, specialties, and industries.

You’re probably already well aware that those kind of qualifications don’t come cheap. According to 2020 data from NCES, the six or seven years you will spend in grad school getting that PhD or PsyD will run you anywhere from $73,000 to over $155,000 depending on the university.

Before you fork over that kind of cash, you probably want to know what jobs you can get with a PhD in psychology.

PhD in psychology careers are both lucrative and fulfilling. But they require specialization and focus, so you need to think about what area you want to concentrate in before you begin your PhD in psychology program.

These 10 doctorate in psychology jobs are some of the options on the table after you graduate.

1. Clinical Psychologist

Doctorate in psychology jobs don’t get any more iconic than work as a clinical psychologist. You want the office with a couch and people laying on it telling you about their childhood? This is the PhD in psychology career you pick to get it.

Clinical psychologists work directly with individuals and groups who need professional psychoanalysis to help them through mental health issues. Private practice isn’t the only option in this role, though. Plenty of clinical psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and larger rehabilitation or long-term care facilities. You have a wide range of subspecialties you can choose from, ranging from addiction issues to couples counseling. Or you can remain a generalist, and enjoy the variety of challenges that walk in the door needing your assistance.

2. Research Psychologist

If you aren’t as much of a people-person, but are fascinated by behaviors and thought processes, then becoming a research psychologist may be the right pick for you. Research psychologists don’t engage in one-to-one therapy work, but instead investigate the causes and cures of mental illness in general. That can involve devising and executing psychological experiments, or mining huge databases of behavioral data to uncover trends.

3. Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

I/O psychologists make their mark in the psychology of work. Businesses and other organizations need to understand how group psychology effects productivity, happiness, and cohesion in the workplace. There is a science to workplace dynamics. A doctorate in psychology gives you the toolset to understand how groups interact under the hierarchy and pressure of a factory floor, a hospital ward, or a trading desk. Public and private companies can pay out big bucks for the right kind of advice to make their organizations more efficient and effective.

An online PhD degree can make it easy for you to build up the practical experience you need in this specialty even while you are still studying.

4. Forensic Psychologist

With shows like Criminal Minds and the popular CSI series making a splash in popular culture, a lot of people are pursuing a PhD in psychology with the idea of becoming a forensic psychologist. If you want to understand exactly how twisted and dark the human brain can become, a doctorate is definitely in your future.

But forensic psychologists aren’t usually chasing shadowy figures into dark allies and deducing where serial killers work and play. Forensic psychology is really a specialty that has to do with the psychology of law and legal process. That goes far beyond criminal justice, extending to jury evaluation in civil trials, public policy analysis, and even reviewing laws before they are passed to assess the impact on individuals and society.

5. Educational Psychologist

The human brain is in many ways a learning machine. How we process, absorb, and interpret the world around us is a constant consideration for all psychologists. But educational psychologists specialize in understanding how we acquire, process, and interpret knowledge.

Many educational psychologists work in schools, offering counseling to children, but it’s a broader role than that. Psychologists in this job may evaluate textbooks and curricula to make sure they are optimized for delivering information, or evaluate standardized tests to be sure they are accurately measuring knowledge. Educational policy and legislative development lean heavily on research pioneered by these doctorate in psychology jobs.

6. Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychology is also concerned with how the brain learns and grows, but it’s a field with bigger fish to fry than just educational matters. It’s the study of mental processes across the lifespan, as the brain and sensory systems grow, mature, and eventually began to deteriorate. Developmental psychologists study and diagnose developmental mental health disorders, playing an important role in pediatric healthcare. But they are also active in researching some of the biggest issues at the other end of the lifespan, looking for ways to cure or treat Alzheimer's and other age-related psychological issues.

7. Social Psychologist

If you’ve ever wondered why a meme goes viral, the social psychology might be the PhD in psychology career for you.

Social psychologists take on some of the most fascinating challenges in the field: they specialize in how individuals both influence and are affected in their thinking by interacting with others. Group think is a thing, and how it happens is the province of the social psychologist. They examine how cultures come from shared thought patterns, and how those patterns both fulfill and constrain the thoughts of people within them.

Understanding social interactions and psychological effects is important for big companies, governments, and healthcare organizations. Social psychology researchers also have plenty of impact on marketing and sales campaigns, right down to picking out the colors for product logos.

8. Health Psychologist

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, health psychology has developed into one of the most fascinating branches of the field. The world has turned into a showcase of reactions to the coronavirus, from panic to outright denial, providing data that will feed future health psychology PhD dissertations for decades.

But it’s also a moment in which more people than ever need the kind of help and advice that health psychologists can offer. From counseling patients on ventilators and in isolation to advising public health agencies on the best campaigns to increase vaccine acceptance rates, health psychologists have had their shining moment thrust upon them. With new recognition of the importance of professional PhD counseling in healthcare, that moment isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.

9. Sports Psychologist

Becoming a sports psychologist is a dream job for any sports fan. Since there are a lot of sports fans in the United States, that makes it a particularly tough field to get into. But the rewards are massive.

Sports psychologists can and do work with pro athletes in any kind of competitive event, including big names who play for major teams. They might work for the teams themselves, advising on team building and coaching processes. In other cases, they work with individual athletes to maximize performance or help with injury recovery.

But sports psychologists play important roles in rehab and assisting amateur athletes, too. Not everyone needs to work for an NBA team to get satisfaction and deliver real results in this field.

10. Neuropsychologist

We saved the toughest job for last. Neuropsychologists explore the boundaries between the mental and the physical. They study the physiological processes underlying thoughts, perceptions, and feelings for a better understanding of how people think. That gives them an edge in determining when problems are purely psychological, or have a basis in physical injury or disease.

The reverse is also true, and neuropsychologists play an important role in research by helping the field of brain science interpret findings of imaging and experiments by translating them into effects on mental processes. New understanding of traumatic brain injury and diseases like Alzheimer's come out of neuropsychology research. It’s one of the most rewarding PhD in psychology jobs you will find.

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What Can I Do With a PhD in Psychology? – PhD in Psychology Career Options

Professionals who earn their Ph.D. in psychology have many more career options available to them than Masters level and Bachelors prepared individuals.

Not only are incomes generally higher with a Ph.D. but jobs are more plentiful and varied after the completion of doctoral level training. Also, in order to actually be considered a psychologist, a doctoral degree in psychology is generally mandatory .

Doctoral prepared professionals generally choose between applied psychology careers and research oriented careers . Applied psychology careers consist of the professional delivering psychological services directly to clients.

Psychologists deals with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. They also frequently provide preventative services for various entities. Some psychologists also apply psychological theories to help businesses overcome challenges and improve workplace productivity.

Other doctoral level professionals choose to dedicate their careers to conducting research. In many universities, doctoral level faculty only spend a small amount of time teaching classes as they spend the majority of their time engaged in research. They often manage laboratories, recruit research trainees, and publish their findings in academic journals.

Research psychologists also spend a lot of time giving talks about their research findings, attending conferences, and more experienced professionals are sometimes called upon to give peer reviews for well-respected academic and professional journals.

Additionally, many research psychologists also find themselves writing grant applications to get funding for their research projects.

What are the Career Options With a PhD in Psychology?

Listed below are some of the popular career options that you can pursue with a PhD in psychology:

Clinical Psychologist

Industrial organizational psychologist, forensic psychologist, rehabilitation psychologist, experimental psychologist, school psychologist.

• Sports Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• Child Psychologist
• Mental Health Psychologist

Clinical psychologists often work in private practice providing evaluations and treatment for individuals who are experiencing mental health issues. However, you will also find a significant amount of these professionals working in hospitals, clinics, residential facilities, and other institutions that provide mental health services. A clinical psychologist in these settings might be a practitioner or an administrator.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical psychologists earn an average mean wage of $102,740 annually, as of May 2023.

Companies hire industrial-organizationalpPsychologists to develop strategies to increase productivity and improve employee retention rates. These professionals focus on organizational structure, employee recruitment and selection, job satisfaction, and the development of better machines and systems for employee comfort. Industrial-organizational psychologists identify methods that work best in the workplace and make recommendations for improvement.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average mean wage of $144,610 annually, as of May 2023.

Forensic psychologists take psychological insights and apply that to legal matters. This specialized area of psychology focuses on criminal and civil matters to include law enforcement, jury selection, probation and parole, victim advocacy, family law, mental status competency, risk assessments, civil commitments, juvenile delinquency, insurance claims, and many other areas of the justice system.

Careers for forensic psychologists are diverse and can include functioning as a court consultant, providing mental health services in correctional facilities, working with law enforcement, or providing victim advocacy.

Although a specific wage for a forensic psychologist was not noted, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians who also serve as Expert Witnesses, earn an average mean wage of $147,585 annually, as of January 2024.

Rehabilitation psychologists work with people who have suffered a significant loss or are struggling with adjusting to life with a disability. These professionals focus on the psychological aspects of loss, disability, and rehabilitation.

Typical clients could include someone who has recently become a paraplegic, is dealing with cancer, or is experiencing a chronic medical condition. Practitioners give their clients the support that they need as they adjust to their new life with the condition.

Researchers in the field of rehabilitation psychology explore how various factors, including biological, social, and environmental issues, affect people with disabilities and other chronic illnesses.

According to ZipRecruiter, the related field of rehabilitation counselor earns an average mean wage of $95,854 annually, as of January 2024.

Experimental psychologists are professionals who specialize in the study of human behavior and cognition. Their research generally explores thinking, learning, attention, motivation, and other cognitive functions. Although they do work with humans, they also study animals such as rats, monkeys, and pigeons.

Experimental psychologists can work in research settings, as consultants for businesses, and are even called upon to develop strategies to help lessen the psychological impact of high intensity training on military personnel.

School psychologists are employed by public school districts, private schools, and learning centers to help students overcome challenges related to disabilities, emotional issues, social adjustment, or other behavioral problems that impede learning. They evaluate the effectiveness of the educational process for students and use available resources as well new strategies to help students improve performance.

School psychologists also help students indirectly by working with teachers, parents, and school administrators to create individualized educational programs for students who are struggling to learn.

In many school districts, they also help administrators with the development of programs for Gifted learners. The goal of school psychologists in this role is to support teachers and parents in implementing individualized instructional strategies for students.

Some professionals specialize in working with specific groups of students such as children with Learning Disabilities, Gifted learners, or Adult learners.

According to ZipRecruiter, school psychologists earn an average mean wage of $92,813 annually, as of January 2024.

Sports psychologists are qualified professionals who help athletes to overcome problems, improve performance and achieve their goals. They draw their knowledge from many fields such as physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and kinesiology.

Sports psychologists explore the link between the psychological and physical factors that affect performance and try to establish what issues are preventing athletes from performing at full potential.

Their role may also involve acting as a consultant, a trainer or a therapist. Therapy may be needed for issues such as career transitions, eating disorders or off-field problems that effect on-field performance.

Working as a trainer may include assistance with rehabilitation after an injury. Athletic teams often consult with sports psychologists or employ one to help with various issues such as group dynamics and leadership issues.

Some sports psychologists become researchers who explore issues such as factors that lead to success, the effects of athletic participation on individuals or the psychological effects of a physical injury.

According to the American Psychological Association’s (APA), sports psychologists can expect to earn between $60,000 and $180,000 a year, with some annual salaries reaching $100,000.

What is the Job Outlook for Psychology Careers?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that although the employment growth of psychologists is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, career prospects are far better for those who have a doctoral degree in psychology.

Related Reading

• How to Prepare for a Career in Psychology
• Top Psychology PhD Programs That Don’t Require GRE
• What is the Difference Between a Master’s and a PhD in Psychology
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What Can I Do With My PhD in Psychology? 10 Job Options For You

Unlock your potential with a PhD in Psychology. Discover diverse career paths, from clinical practice to research, and make a meaningful impact on lives.

Derek Pankaew

Jun 13, 2024

What Can I Do with My PhD in Psychology: 10 Job Options for You

Introduction to phd in psychology career options.

A PhD in psychology can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities and higher pay. With this advanced degree, students can pursue various career paths, including clinical practice, research, education, and applied psychology. Deciding which path is suited to your needs, interests, and educational background requires careful consideration and research.

A PhD in psychology is often a requirement for many high-level positions in the field. It allows individuals to specialize in areas such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and more. This guide explores ten job options available to those with a PhD in psychology, providing insights into the roles, requirements, and work environments.

Exploring Career Paths in Psychology

Before diving into specific job options, it's essential to consider your career goals and preferences. Think about how long you’re willing to continue your education , where you envision yourself working, and which areas of psychology interest you the most, such as mental health, research, or education. Common areas of employment include education, business, healthcare, and government.

Jobs in Mental Health

Clinical psychologists.

Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat individuals experiencing mental or emotional health issues. They often work in hospitals, counseling centers, schools, health clinics, or private practice. Clinical psychologists may treat people experiencing a range of mental health conditions, from anxiety and depression to severe mental illnesses. A PhD in psychology is often required for these roles, though some positions may accept a master's degree with supervised clinical hours.

Example: A clinical psychologist might work in a hospital setting, providing therapy to patients with severe mental illnesses, or in private practice, helping clients cope with anxiety and depression.

Mental Health Counselors

Mental health counselors have many of the same job duties as clinical psychologists but tend to focus more on helping individuals overcome issues affecting their daily lives. Educational requirements can vary, but mental health counselors must have a minimum of a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or education. They may work in hospitals, counseling centers, schools, health clinics, or private practice.

Example: A mental health counselor might work in a school, helping students manage stress and anxiety, or in a community health center, providing support for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.

Jobs in Educational Settings

School psychologists.

School psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat children experiencing behavioral, emotional, or academic problems. They may also recommend treatments or work with parents, teachers, and others to help children overcome problems and achieve goals. All states have differing requirements, but most require a minimum of a master’s degree in school psychology. School psychologists may work in schools, hospitals, counseling centers, or private practice.

Example: A school psychologist might work in an elementary school, providing assessments and interventions for students with learning disabilities, or in a high school, helping students cope with emotional and behavioral issues.

Educational Psychologists

Educational psychology is the branch of psychology concerned with schools, teaching psychology, educational issues, and student concerns. Educational psychologists often study how students learn or work directly with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to improve student outcomes. To become an educational psychologist, you will need at least a master’s degree, although many states require a doctorate to practice as a licensed psychologist. Educational psychologists may work in schools, universities, or research institutions .

Example: An educational psychologist might conduct research on effective teaching methods or work with a university to develop programs that support student learning and retention.

Jobs in Applied Psychology

Forensic psychologists.

Forensic psychology involves applying psychology to the field of criminal investigation and law. Forensic psychologists typically have a master’s in forensic psychology at the minimum, but many hold a PhD in clinical or counseling psychology. They may work in various settings, including family courts, drug courts, criminal courts, or private consulting. Forensic psychologists work with law enforcement agencies, courts, or private companies, applying psychological principles to legal issues.

Example: A forensic psychologist might work with a criminal court to assess the mental state of defendants or provide expert testimony in cases involving psychological issues.

Easily pronounces technical words in any field

Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

Industrial-organizational psychologists study workplace behavior and ergonomics, often working to increase productivity or efficiency. I-O psychologists perform a variety of functions, including hiring qualified employees, conducting tests, designing products, creating training courses, and performing research on different aspects of the workplace. I-O psychologists generally need a minimum of a master’s degree, though opportunities and pay are better with a PhD in psychology. They may work in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, or finance.

Example: An industrial-organizational psychologist might work with a large corporation to develop employee training programs or conduct research on workplace motivation and satisfaction.

Human Factors Psychologists

Human factor is an area of psychology that focuses on a range of different topics, including ergonomics, workplace safety, human error, product design, human capability, and human-computer interaction. Human factors psychologists explore the ways that people interact with products and environments. They help design interfaces that are easy to understand to maximize productivity and safety. Human factors psychologists may work in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, or technology.

Example: A human factors psychologist might work with a tech company to design user-friendly software interfaces or with a manufacturing firm to improve workplace safety protocols.

Jobs in Research and Academia

Research psychologists.

Research psychologists conduct studies and gather data to better understand human behavior and mental processes. They often work in universities, research institutions, or government agencies. Research psychologists may specialize in areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology. They conduct research, publish findings, and contribute to the scientific understanding of psychological principles.

Example: A research psychologist might conduct studies on memory and cognition, working in a university lab to explore how people learn and retain information.

Academic Psychologists

Academic psychologists teach and conduct research at universities and colleges. They often specialize in areas such as counseling psychology, clinical psychology, or educational psychology. Academic psychologists may work in academia, research institutions, or government agencies. They teach undergraduate and graduate students , conduct research, and publish scholarly articles.

Example: An academic psychologist might teach courses in developmental psychology and conduct research on child development, publishing findings in academic journals and presenting at conferences.

Alternative Career Options

Consulting psychologists.

Consulting psychologists conduct individual assessments, provide group consultations, and help organizations through their knowledge of psychology. They may create psychological assessments for hiring employees, advise executives on organizational change, or consult on organizational issues. Consulting psychologists work in various settings, including private practice, hospitals, and clinics.

Example: A consulting psychologist might work with a company to develop assessment tools for employee selection or provide executive coaching to improve leadership skills.

Neuropsychologists

Neuropsychologists examine how the brain influences behavior. They study memory, perception, and behavior, along with the effects of injury on the brain. Some neuropsychologists assist patients in figuring out long-term care. Neuropsychologists work in research and development or at hospitals or universities.

Example: A neuropsychologist might work in a hospital, assessing patients with traumatic brain injury and developing rehabilitation plans, or conduct research on neurological disorders at a university.

Health Psychologists

Health psychologists work to understand how biological, psychological, and social factors affect health and wellness. They may study how people react to illness and create plans with other healthcare professionals to improve recovery times. Health psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and private practice. They assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health issues related to health.

Example: A health psychologist might work in a hospital setting, helping patients manage chronic pain through psychological interventions or conduct research on the impact of stress on physical health.

A PhD in psychology offers numerous career paths, allowing individuals to specialize in areas that align with their interests and skills. Whether you are interested in clinical practice, research, education, or applied psychology, there are many opportunities to use your advanced degree to make a meaningful impact.

By understanding the various roles and requirements, you can make informed decisions about your career path and take steps to achieve your professional goals. The journey to finding the right career may be challenging, but with perseverance and a proactive approach, you can build a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and expertise.

Additional Tips for Psychology Graduates

• Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Keeping up with the latest trends and developments in psychology can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
• Build an Online Presence: Creating a professional profile on platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with potential employers and showcase your expertise.
• Consider Short-Term Projects: Freelance projects or consulting work can provide valuable experience and help you transition smoothly into a new career path.
• Seek Funding Opportunities: Applying for grants and funding can support your research projects and enhance your academic CV, making you a more attractive candidate for academic positions.
• Develop Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and leadership skills are crucial in any career.

In conclusion, with a PhD in psychology, the career possibilities are vast and varied. By exploring different paths, building your skills, and staying proactive in your career development, you can find a rewarding and impactful role in the field of psychology.

PhD in Psychology

Applied Psychology

Psychology Careers

Mental Health Careers

Academic Psychology

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25 PhD jobs in Psychology

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• PhD positions in Cognitive Psychology (11)
• PhD positions in Behavioural Science (10)
• PhD positions in Neuropsychology (8)
• PhD positions in Experimental Psychology (7)
• PhD positions in Health Psychology (7)
• PhD positions in Educational Psychology (6)
• PhD positions in Developmental Psychology (5)
• PhD positions in Social Psychology (5)
• PhD positions in Biological Psychology (4)
• PhD positions in Emotion (4)

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Search results (25)

PhD Candidate for Computational Approaches for Studying Animal Behavior, Personality, and Emotions

About our Campus: Rehovot Campus (Rehovot) and Mt. Scopus Campus (Jerusalem). The position will be based across two campuses: The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment on The Hebrew University’s beautiful Rehovot Campus. Reh...

Full-time FSR doctoral position in the Project "Embodied grammar learning in high-immersive virtual reality"

We are seeking a full-time doctoral student funded by the FSR (Fonds Spécial de Recherche) to contribute to a project aimed at developing an empirically based framework for embodied grammar learning within VR-based environments. This project integ...

PhD Position. Youth’s development in schools: Scrutinizing the role of the social and learning context at different time scales

The successful candidate will work in the Research Unit of School Psychology and Development in Context. Our research unit is dedicated to the study of typical and atypical development within diffe...

Three 2-year Postdoctoral Fellowships at the Zukunftskolleg

(Fulltime, E 13 TV-L)Reference No: 2024/114. The preferred start date is April 1st, 2025. Conditionally on the submission of an external grant, the position can be extended for an additional year. In principle, the position can be divided into two...

PhD position in experimental social psychology (Stereotypes and Generics)

We offer a fully-funded PhD position (funded by FWO – Research Foundation Flanders) in the Laboratory of Experimental Social Psychology (LESP) of KU Leuven. The position is currently funded for 3 y...

Perception and neural processing of breathlessness

The Research Group Health Psychology at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven aims at unravelling how psychological and somatic variables interact in health and disease from...

PhD Candidate: Effect of Online and Offline Marketing of Alcohol-free Beverages on the Drinking Behaviour of Young People

Employment 1.0 FTEGross monthly salary € 2,770 - € 3,539Required background Research University DegreeOrganizational unit Faculty of Social SciencesApplication deadline 11 August 2024Are you passionate about becoming an expert in the unique resear...

PhD position on multi-sensory cues for spatial awareness in VR/XR

Job descriptionYou will explore the following research questions using advanced VR/XR setups and experiments with human volunteers: 1) How can we model visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, auditory,...

Doctoral Researcher, 8 positions (Faculty of Social Sciences)

Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences create a unique environment for multidisciplinary, inspirational and high-impact research and education. Our universities community has its competitive edges in technology, health and s...

Paid PhD positions in the fields of computer science, physics, mechanics and photonics based in France and Australia

AUFRANDE is a unique PhD program co-funded by the European Union (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions), that brings together 37 research centres in France and Australia, and over 40 non-academic partners. AUFRANDE is looking for 15+ PhD candidates who ...

Fully funded PhD positions in Psychiatric, Translational Research and Basic Neuroscience

Fully funded (and no tuition) PhD program in genetic, molecular, cellular, circuit based Neuroscience and translational, clinical research in Psychiatry. There is the option for a residency track for medical doctors.We welcome applications startin...

PhD Position fixed term (36 months), salary scale 13 TVöD (65%)

The Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics (MPIEA) investigates why and how people create art and how they perform, experience, and evaluate it. The institute’s focus is on music, but we also engage with other performing arts such as dance ...

PhD in Educational Sciences

The University | About us...The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character. The University was founded in 2003 a...

Upcoming fully funded PhD Positions in Neurosciences and Translational Psychiatry research, including a residency/PhD track option for medical doctors

There are no tuition fees for this PhD program.We welcome applications through our online application portal starting on August 15, 2024 for a start in fall 2025. The application deadline will be on October 31, 2024. The International Max Planck R...

Capturing early heterogeneity in dyslexia by using modality-specific, naturalistic and neurostructural paradigms

The Dyslexia Research Collaboration (DYSCO) of KU Leuven is a collaboration on dyslexia research between the labs of Parenting and Special Education (Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences)...

Upcoming doctoral (PhD) positions at the International Max Planck Research School - Biological Intelligence

The International Max Planck Research School – Biological Intelligence (IMPRS-BI), with sites in Martinsried, Munich and Seewiesen, has an open call for fully-funded doctoral student positions in the fields of behavior, neurobiology, connectomics,...

PhD position (100%) on medical decision making with minors

The project Societal perspectives on medical decision making with minors, or the Minors in Medicine Study (MiMeS) for short, is led by an interdisciplinary research group that has been working inte...

PhD Research Fellow in Psychology

About the positionA 100 % position is available at the University of Agder, Faculty of Health and Sports Sciences as a PhD Research Fellow in Psychology, affiliated to the Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, for a period of three y...

Affectometrics: Detection of affective episodes informative about well-being

Momentary affective experiences in daily life are relevant for the prediction, diagnosis, and prevention of mental health problems. The current state of the art of measuring affect in daily life is...

Doctoral scholarship holder interpreting studies

Let’s shape the future - University of AntwerpThe University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, c...

PhD fellowships in Communication and Leadership

Kristiania University College is offering up to five fully funded PhD fellowships in Communication and Leadership for a fixed-term period of three (3) years beginning in August 2025. During this time, the successful applicant will be employed at K...

PhD position in advanced neuroimaging for radiotherapy-induced neurotoxicity

We are seeking a motivated PhD student to join our research team. The student will work on a large-scale multi-modal imaging project investigating radiotherapy-induced neurotoxicity in adult brain ...

PhD in Developmental Psychology

PhD position for Social Networks and Digital Cultural Consumption

PhD position for Social Networks and Digital Cultural ConsumptionWe are an interdisciplinary lab studying social and behavioral phenomena using network concepts. Members of the lab actively develop...

PhD Student Position in Visual Disorders and Dyslexia Research

Offer DescriptionCognitive Neuropsychology LaboratoryUCLouvainLouvain-la-Neuve, BelgiumProject Overview: the successful candidate will work on an exciting project aimed at clarifying the prevalence and characteristics of visual disorders in dyslex...

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What Can You Do with a PhD in Psychology?

Key Takeaways

• A PhD in psychology will open career opportunities in the fields of research psychology, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and even management consultancy.
• Psychology positions have a projected job growth of 6% over the next decade.
• Those who earn a PhD in psychology work in medical settings, government agencies, educational institutions, or in private practice.

If you’re passionate about building a successful career in psychology, earning a doctorate in psychology could get you there. For those who are passionate about the subject but wonder, “What can you do with a PhD in psychology?“, we’ll help you explore your options so you can decide whether a PhD in psychology is worth the shot. 

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With a PhD in psychology, you can pursue various career paths, including research psychology, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and even management consultancy. Alternatively, a doctorate also helps you pursue different areas of specialization within the field of psychology.

If you are considering a PhD degree in psychology, you’ve likely already earned your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. However, to progress further into the roles of research, academia, authorship, or lectureship, you have to take the next step. If you’re already employed in a field of psychology, earning a PhD helps you level up.

While a doctoral degree gears you up to become a licensed clinical psychologist, there are plenty of other career options to explore. Here’s a list of the most popular career pathways you can pursue with a PhD in psychology, along with their salaries and growth statistics.

Psychological Researcher

Psychological researchers, or research psychologists, deeply understand the human mind. Their primary duties include conducting experiments to test procedures to explore various aspects of psychology. This includes selecting candidates for clinical trials, administering tests, and carefully observing and documenting the outcomes of their research.

By the time they are done with PhD, psychological researchers are capable enough to review existing literature and contribute to scholarly discussions. Some may serve at universities, while others may work for hospitals or government agencies. If you’re passionate about research and writing, this might be a pretty lucrative field with tons of career opportunities.

• National average salary: $99,577 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028

Clinical Director or Supervisor

The clinical director is one of the most highly paid yet growing careers in psychology . Clinical supervisors monitor psychologists and other mental health professionals to oversee the quality of clinical care provided. They establish best practices for the workplace and check whether the institution complies with regulations in the mental health field.

As a clinical director, you’ll serve in various settings, including mental health clinics, hospitals, universities, or even private practices. Also, these professionals arrange development opportunities for staff members, gather feedback from patients, and delegate cases to team members.

• National average salary: $120,761 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 28% from 2021 to 2031

Psychotherapist

Like clinical psychologists, psychotherapists support individuals with mental health conditions and help them live a fulfilling life. Unlike clinical psychologists, psychotherapists diagnose more general mental health issues. They closely monitor their client’s behaviors, emotions, and thoughts to develop specific treatment plans for them.

Additionally, they use different tools and therapeutic techniques to develop coping strategies for their patients and improve the way they regulate emotions. A PhD in psychology potentially makes you a perfect fit to deal with the complexity involved in psychotherapy. Ultimately, you understand your clients better to know where they’re coming from.

• National average salary: $115,281 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032  

Psychometrics Specialist

A psychometric specialist looks at assessments to gather information about a patient’s personality, symptoms, and cognitive abilities. They often join hands with mental health specialists to facilitate research or diagnose and treat patients. On top of that, these professionals play a key role in collecting data for research and ensuring its accuracy.

They use a combination of interviews, examinations, and standardized tests to gather data about a patient’s psychological state and decode it to help clinicians and researchers reach conclusions. As a psychometric specialist, you’ll work in research or educational institutions, clinics, government agencies, or independently as a consultant.

• National average salary: $62,264 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 6% from 2018 to 2028 

Human Resource Director

If you would rather work in an organizational setting, a PhD in psychology also helps build a mindset that prepares you to work in HR. HR directors are highly paid individuals responsible for shaping the recruitment and selection process in an organization. They create and implement corporate policies in areas like talent management, employee relations, and workplace culture.

With a PhD in psychology, you bring a deep understanding of human behavior, emotions, and motivation to the role. Plus, as an HR director, you can use the knowledge from your doctorate to develop thoughtful policies, systems, and resources to support employee well-being.

• National average salary: $116,601 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031

Marketing Director

With a PhD in psychology, you can also serve as a business or marketing director and build a fruitful career. Marketing directors use the knowledge of psychology to bridge the gap between relevant products and customers. Serving at multiple profit or non-profit sectors, these graduates contribute to public relations, management, and technical services.

As a marketing director, your background in psychology equips you with the right knowledge of consumer behavior and effective ways to communicate with them. This, in turn, helps you develop successful marketing campaigns that resonate perfectly with your audience.

• National average salary: $120,014 per year
• Growth: Expected to grow 10% from 2018 to 2028

Management Consultant

Management consultancy is another productive career path you can choose after a doctorate in psychology. Management consultants improve an organization’s efficiency, productivity, and performance. With a deep understanding of psychology, you can easily identify and deal with the underlying issues and patterns within your company.

Plus, management consultants provide feedback and recommendations on addressing employee and business management problems. They might also join hands with top-level management to devise practical solutions that align with the company’s core values.

• National average salary: $108,555 per year 
• Growth: Projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychology is a rapidly growing field  that requires individual practitioners to obtain a state license. Psychologists in this field work closely with law enforcement to investigate crimes. For a license, you need to complete a doctoral degree from an APA-approved program and have clinically-supervised work experience.

Licensed forensic psychologists assist legal professionals with addressing the psychological aspects of the cases they’re dealing with. For instance, they conduct evaluations, assessments, and psychological testing to understand the case. Once they have come up with logical reasons, they present their findings and opinions to judges and juries.

• National average salary: $87,877 per year
• Growth: Expected to grow 6% between 2021 and 2031

Behavioral Health Specialist

As the name suggests, behavioral health specialists counsel and support individuals with behavioral or mental health problems. They use therapeutic techniques to help patients develop new behaviors and cope with their existing condition. Most importantly, they use their psychological knowledge to identify the root causes of their patient’s behaviors.

If you have a PhD in behavioral health, you can work with patients who have severe mental illness or developmental disorders like autism. The advanced degree helps you set developmental goals for your patients and implement evidence-based treatment plans to guard their well-being.

• National average salary: $54,663 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 9% between 2018 and 2028

Addiction Counselor

PhD in psychology also enables you to serve as an addiction counselor, where you support patients on their journey to recovery from addictive behaviors. Typically, addiction counselors guide through the rehabilitation process and help manage withdrawal symptoms. They often work together with medical professionals to effectively detoxify clients from drugs and alcohol.

In addition to one-on-one counseling sessions, addiction counselors arrange group therapy sessions. This provides clients with peer support and learning about new experiences and coping mechanisms. They monitor clients throughout the rehabilitation process till they finally achieve sobriety.

• National average salary: $65,310 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032

Prerequisites for Earning a PhD in Psychology

If you’ve made up your mind and want to earn a PhD in psychology, you’ll generally need at least a bachelor’s degree to get in. While some institutions may also require a master’s degree as a prerequisite, it largely depends on the program you’re opting for. Some universities offer combined master’s and doctoral degrees, so you get both degrees at once.

However, the most integral part of your PhD program is the area you’ve chosen. When applying, it’s recommended to thoroughly research the specialties the universities on your radar are offering. This isn’t just about coursework since the topics of your dissertation will also depend on your chosen concentration.

Plus, to make sure you quickly get through the admission process, it’s important to prepare for it beforehand. While the specific requirements depend on your university, here’s a list of some basic prerequisites when applying for a PhD in psychology:

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field
• A master’s degree (depending on the institution)
• Strong academic record
• Letters of recommendation
• Relevant research experience or coursework
• Statement of Purpose (SoP)
• Interview (as a part of the application process)

Benefits of Earning a PhD in Psychology

Even if you’re sure about earning a PhD in psychology, it’s best to take a look at the benefits to check whether they align with your future goals. While the time required to complete a PhD may be significant, the benefits you reap make it worthwhile. Here’s an overview of the pros of getting a PhD in psychology:

Obtaining a License

Earning a doctorate in psychology is the only path to practice independently as a licensed psychologist. A license allows you to diagnose and treat mental disorders and provide therapy sessions to clients.

Better Employment Opportunities

Many employers, including those in the educational sector, prefer PhD holders over candidates with a master’s in psychology . This is due to years of experience and practice acquired through a doctoral program. For instance, PhD holders are often preferred for faculty positions, research roles, and leadership positions.

Skill Development

PhD holders are seen as authorities in the field of psychology  and research. Through extensive training and coursework, PhD students develop advanced knowledge and skills in areas like research methodology, statistical analysis, and clinical assessments.

High Paying Positions

Doctoral degree holders in psychology are paid way higher than those with bachelor’s degrees. The difference in salary reflects the higher earning potential that comes with advanced degrees in psychology. For instance, candidates with a PhD may easily qualify for higher paying positions in academia, clinical practice, research, or consulting.

Related Questions

What do you learn in a doctorate program for psychology.

In a doctorate program in psychology, you dig deeper into the field of psychology. For instance, you study research theories and methods and do your own research for a dissertation. Most PhD programs also allow you to gain hands-on experience in real clinical settings through an internship program.

Where can you work with a doctorate in psychology?

Fortunately, you can choose from plenty of workplace options once you get your PhD in psychology. You may work as a psychologist in a clinic or even begin practicing privately. Some individuals with a doctorate serve at government agencies, hospitals, and even educational institutions.

How long does it take to get a PhD in psychology?

Generally, getting a PhD in psychology takes around 5-8 years , including some hands-on experience and a year-long internship. However, it’s worth noting that PhD programs are highly competitive. So, the earlier you prepare for your dream university for your psychology degree , the sooner you can secure a spot.

We hope we’ve adequately answered the question “What can you do with a PhD in psychology?” for you and you have more clarity about whether this is the right path for you. Whether you’re into clinical practice, research, or social service, a doctorate in psychology can accommodate your personal preferences if you pick the right area for yourself.

• What Can You Do With A PhD in Psychology?

That means you will be qualified for pretty much any kind of position you can dream up in the world of psychology.

The traditional jobs for graduates with PhD psychologists are in academia, including teaching and research, and the big kahuna: working as a licensed clinical psychologist.

But psychology has many different branches and sub-fields, with positions in every kind of industry. Basically any field you can think of that involves human interaction or decisions also involves psychology at some level. And with a PhD, you can take your career to the next level in any of those fields.

What Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate in Psychology?

First, though, you are going to have to get out there and earn that degree. As you can imagine, if you want to unlock the highest paying, most responsible, highest impact jobs in the field, you’re going to have to work your tail off to get the credentials.

That means committing to between five and seven years of study in a PhD program. It’s tough, make no mistake. You can see exactly how tough when you look at the attrition rate. More than 29,000 people earned master’s degrees in psychology in 2018-19. Care to guess how many went on to complete a doctorate in the field?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , only around 6,000 people a year graduate with doctoral degrees in psychology.

If you want to be one of those 6,000, you will need dedication, strong study skills, and deep pockets. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the average costs for psychology doctoral programs in a 2016 survey came out to:

• Public in-state university – $11,000 per year
• Public out-of-state university – $24,000 per year
• Private university – $34,000 per year

Of course, you can’t just start right out in doctoral studies. It’s not always necessary to start with a bachelor’s degree in psychology , but it can be a big help to your eventual doctoral studies. Either way, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in some related field first.

Earning a master’s, interestingly, is not a requirement. Many doctoral programs in psychology accept applicants who have only completed a bachelor’s program, although usually additional experience in the field is also preferred.

Once you’re accepted to a PhD in psychology program, you can expect to study subjects such as:

• Psychological assessment and diagnosis
• Individual and group psychotherapy techniques
• Psychopharmacology
• Cognitive and affective bases of behavior
• Human lifespan development
• Professional ethics

You will also spend plenty of time in clinical practicum and internship placements that help teach you the trade of clinical psychological therapy with real patients facing real problems.

More importantly, you’ll be expected to complete a doctoral dissertation. That’s a publication-quality research paper developing original ideas and showcasing unique research that you will undertake, write, and defend before a dissertation committee. The paper itself can take as many as two or three years of your entire program.

You’ll need to make sure you are at a school that supports your goals and offers the right resources to make that happen.

EXPLORE SCHOOLS THAT OFFER A PHD IN PSYCHOLOGY TODAY!

What is the difference between a PsyD and a PhD in psychology?

The PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, is the traditional degree in the field and the one that most practicing psychologists hold. It is traditionally very research focused and has excellent preparation for careers in research or academic psychology.

The PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, is a newer degree that has a more clinical focus. It’s designed for anyone who wants to become a practicing clinical psychologist and offers more practical preparation.

Should you earn a master’s degree in psychology before studying for a PhD?

Earning a master’s degree in psychology isn’t really necessary before you enter a PhD program, but you might choose to do so for other reasons. Master’s programs can be more focused and customizable to your fields of study than doctorates in psychology. It can also cut two years off your eventual time in a PhD program.

Most PhD programs will grant you a master’s along the way to earning your doctorate—you are covering the same ground, it’s just all included in a single program. Choosing to earn a master’s program before proceeding with your doctorate allows you to fine-tune your studies in a way that the doctorate alone might not accommodate, however. For example, you might have better luck finding a master’s program with specialized training in sport’s psychology than a PhD program in that specialization. By taking the master’s separately first, you get that niche expertise on top of your clinical skills from the doctorate.

What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Psychology?

All 50 states require a doctorate as part of the qualifications of licensed psychologists. The five to seven years of study and in-depth clinical experience are exactly the training that both the public and government want to see in trusted psychological professionals.

There are many different kinds of applications for clinical therapy for psychologists. You can specialize and find work in areas such as:

• Industrial-organizational psychology – Work in businesses and large organizations to optimize interaction and productivity.
• Counseling psychology – Delivering direct psychotherapy in areas ranging from substance abuse to post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Marriage psychology – Performing couples and family counseling work to preserve and improve relationships
• Health psychology – Health psychologists work with populations in medical treatment and recovery, dealing with adjustments to long-term or traumatic health issues.

What jobs can you do with a PhD in psychology?

Clinical psychologist is the most popular job for graduates with a PhD in psychology, but you’re not limited to clinical practice. There are many jobs that require a psychology doctoral degree but don’t directly involve psychotherapy. Some of these areas straddle the boundaries between clinical and general psychology practice; a forensic psychologist, for instance, might work with police to evaluate evidence at crime scenes, but also work directly with criminals to offer therapy and treatment.

• Forensic psychologist – Works in legal environments, both analyzing the psychology of crimes and criminal behavior and also that of witnesses and juries.
• Educational psychologist – Educational psychologists may work in schools, but they are not school psychologists, who need only a master’s degree. Instead, educational psychologists study the processes of learning and the learning environment, figuring out the most effective presentation and techniques.
• Social psychologists – Social psychologists study group psychology and how culture and environment can effect individual and group behavior.
• Developmental psychologists – In developmental psychology, you study how culture, individual development, and genetic influences come together to determine how people think and grow. This includes looking at the roots of psychopathologies and helping develop treatments and prevention techniques.

You can also find psychologists with PhDs working in many other kinds of industries. There are psychologists working for NASA on the psychological challenges of space travel, for example, and working with casinos and computer gaming companies to understand how to craft compelling and absorbing play experiences. You can carve out an exciting job in psychology in almost any industry with a PhD in your pocket.

PhD in Psychology Salary and Job Prospects

Psychologists who go all the way through the pipeline to earn their PhD in the field don’t have to worry about ending up on the unemployment line. With only a few more than 6,000 individuals a year attaining that high level of education, you will find you are always in demand.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3 percent increase in the number of psychologist positions between 2019 and 2029.

That’s about the average rate of increase for all American professions.

Of course, like any job, you can find different rates of growth and different prospects depending on where you are located. BLS ranks the five states with the highest employment level of psychologists, all other, which is the group that includes clinical psychologists, as:

• Massachusetts

According to the APA’s Center for Workforce Studies, there were about 102,000 active doctoral-level psychologists licensed in the U.S. in 2018 – which works out to about 31 psychologists per 100,000 people nationwide.

How much does a psychologist make with a PhD?

The overall median salary for all psychologists in 2020 was $82,180. But that’s probably much lower than most PhD-prepared psychologists make. The highest-paid psychologists during this time worked in the government sector, where the median was $100,360, followed by those working in hospitals ($90,640), ambulatory healthcare settings ($85,970), and elementary and secondary school settings ($77,560).

While BLS salary statistics detail what psychologists are earning in specific industries, it pays to note that psychologists who run their own private practice or provide their services in a consultancy role may earn significantly more than those working as an employee of a hospital, healthcare practice, or other healthcare employer.

While it may take some time to build a psychology business and a strong client base, the freedom that comes along with taking control of your career can have significant financial and professional benefits in the long run. Build a practice that includes employing multiple psychologists or establish yourself as a top industry consultant and your earning potential has the potential to surpass what any employer will pay you.

Practicing clinical psychologists fall into the broader category for “psychologists, all other,” which in 2020 showed a median salary of $105,780. But even that may be low for many PhD majors in psychology. The top ten percent of those in the profession earned more than $137,590 that year.

The states with the highest mean wage in 2020 were:

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Psychology Careers That Require a Doctorate Degree (PhD, PsyD, EdD)

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What Psychology Careers Require a PhD, PsyD, or EdD?

Social service and mental health career psychologists, government and public service psychologists, education and academic psychologists.

In some industries, your ability to be successful is not affected by whether or not you have earned a doctorate degree. Unfortunately, psychology is not one of those industries. While a bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology can qualify you for many psychology and counseling jobs, earning a doctorate in psychology ( PhD, PsyD, or EdD degree ) can be very valuable and may even be required for your success as a professional psychologist.

What Can You Do With a PhD or Doctorate in Psychology?

There are many specialty areas within doctorate psychology programs and each will lead you into a specific career path. Before you sign up for 7 more years of school you’ll want to be confident that you know what you want to do in your doctorate career and once you graduate. Consider talking with your academic advisor, mentors, other PsyD, EdD, or PhD professionals, and anyone else who may give you valuable input and advice as you create and execute your plan to earn your doctorate.

Careers That Require a Doctorate Degree

Below you’ll find additional information on common careers and employment areas that are pursued by students with a doctorate in psychology. Some of the most common industries where these doctorate-level psychologists work include mental health, government, business, and education. You’ll want to explore each area to get a better idea of which one might be a fit for you.

Mental health and social services are two of the most popular career fields for psychology graduates. Not only is there strong demand for professionals in these fields, psychologists can expect to earn a decent income and have the opportunity to work directly with patients struggling with mental illness and other ailments. While a master’s degree in psychology is the minimum requirement for some entry-level social service and mental health career psychologist positions, most of the best jobs are reserved for psychologists with a doctorate in psychology. Some of the most popular positions within this area of psychology include:

• Clinical Psychologists – Clinical psychology is one of the most stable sectors of the psychology industry. Clinical psychologists are always in demand and can work in a variety capacities within several industries. They diagnose and treat individuals suffering from mental illnesses and typically work in direct patient care settings. Most clinical psychologists hold a PhD in psychology or a PsyD.
• Counselors – Like clinical psychologists, counselors work in direct patient care settings and strive to help individuals improve the quality of their lives. However, where clinical psychologists treat mental illness and disorders, counselors address emotional issues that negatively affect an individual’s personal life. Counselors typically have a master’s or doctorate degree in counseling or psychology.
• Social Workers – Surprisingly, a large number of psychology majors end up working as social workers for public, government and non-profit social welfare agencies. Like clinical psychologists and counselors, social workers are frequently involved with the care of individuals suffering from mental or emotional illness. Entry-level positions in social work require a bachelor’s degree, but more and more social workers are obtaining a master’s degree in social work, psychology or a related area. A few will go on to earn a doctorate degree.

A growing number of graduate degree holding psychologists are finding careers with public service and government agencies. Federal, local and state agencies employ psychologists to work in research and social welfare, at public hospitals and clinics, and as mental health counselors and evaluators at correctional facilities. A few of the most common careers in these sectors include:

• Social worker
• Social service manager
• Parole officer
• Mental health counselor
• Rehabilitation counselor
• Vocational counselor
• Mental health specialist
• Behavior analysis specialist
• Psychosocial specialist
• Administrators and managers

Psychologists work within elementary educational systems to develop more effective educational, child development and special needs programs, and to counsel emotionally and mentally challenged children. At the college and university level, they’re employed as researchers, teachers, and professors. Psychologists working within secondary education are usually required to obtain at minimum a masters degree. To work at the university level, a doctorate degree in psychology is required. Common psychology careers within education include:

• School Psychologists – School psychologists work directly with individual students who are dealing with emotional and behavioral problems that affect their academic performance and ability to interact with other children. School psychologists typically have a master’s degree in psychology, education or a closely related field.
• Educational Psychologists – Educational psychologists are often confused with school psychologists, but they are very different fields of psychology. Where school psychologists assess, diagnose and treat emotional and behavioral issues of individual students, educational psychologists are concerned with the overall quality of education, curriculum, and programs for all students. Educational psychologists study how students learn and work with parents, teachers and school administration to improve academic outcomes for an entire student population. Educational psychologists are typically required to obtain a doctorate degree in psychology or education.
• School Counselors – School counselors are responsible for helping children who are struggling emotionally or behaviorally to improve their academic performance, emotional health, and social interactions. They may also provide vocational and career counseling in high school and college settings. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is often the minimum requirement to become a school counselor, although a master’s degree may be required depending on where you work.

Psychology and Business Careers

While a large percentage of psychologists opt for a more traditional career in education, public service, or mental health care, a growing number of psychology professionals, known as applied psychologists, are putting their skills and knowledge to work in the private sector. Applied psychologists use their expertise in psychology to improve vital business processes, enhance product design and develop effective workplace policies and procedures. A master’s degree in psychology is often sufficient to get started in applied psychology but the best positions and career opportunities require a doctorate degree. A few of the most popular career paths for applied psychologists include the following:

• Industrial-organizational Psychologists – Not only are Industrial-organizational Psychologists (aka, I-O Psychologists) in high demand they are also some of the best-paid professionals in the field of applied psychology. It is not uncommon for seasoned I-O Psychologists to make over $120,000 a year. I-O Psychologists use their unique knowledge of psychology to improve workplace productivity and efficiency for public companies, private companies, and organizations of every type. They perform a variety of functions, such as conducting performance tests, improving product design, developing corporate training programs, and hiring qualified employees and managers. A master’s degree in psychology will qualify individuals for entry-level positions in industrial-organizational psychology but a doctorate degree is the degree of choice if you want to advance in this field.
• Forensic Psychologists – Recognition and popularity of forensic psychology has skyrocketed over the last decade, as has the demand for forensic psychologists. In short, forensic psychologists apply psychology in all aspects of criminal investigation and law. Forensic psychologists perform a number of functions including psychological analysis, expert witness, mental evaluation and private consulting. Forensic psychologists must have a master’s degree in forensic psychology but many hold a PhD in forensic or clinical psychology.

For those willing to put in the time and effort to earn a master’s or doctorate degree in psychology the career options and opportunities are endless. However, if you want to get the most from your graduate degree we highly recommend that you determine your future career path before you get started.

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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

Verywell / Evan Polenghi

Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.

Job opportunities, earning a degree, specialty areas, alternatives.

Getting a Ph.D. in psychology can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. For many careers paths in psychology-related career paths, a doctoral degree is necessary to obtain work and certification. A Ph.D. is one option, but it is not the only educational path that's available to reach some of these goals.

A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is one of the highest level degrees you can earn in the field of psychology . If you're considering pursuing a graduate degree, you might be wondering how long it takes to earn a Ph.D. in psychology . Generally, a bachelor's degree takes four years of study. While a master's degree requires an additional two to three years of study beyond the bachelor's, a doctoral degree can take between four to six years of additional graduate study after earning your bachelor's degree.

Recently, a new degree option known as the Psy.D. , or doctor of psychology, has grown in popularity as an alternative to the Ph.D. The type of degree you decide to pursue depends on a variety of factors, including your own interests and your career aspirations.

Before deciding which is right for you, research your options and decide if graduate school in psychology is even the best choice for you. Depending on your career goals, you might need to earn a master's or doctoral degree in psychology in order to practice in your chosen field. In other instances, a degree in a similar subject such as counseling or social work may be more appropriate.

A doctorate in psychology is required if you want to open your own private practice.

If you want to become a licensed psychologist, you must earn either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.

In most cases, you will also need a doctorate if you want to teach and conduct research at the college or university level. While there are some opportunities available for people with a master's degree in various specialty fields, such as industrial-organizational psychology and health psychology , those with a doctorate will generally find higher pay, greater job demand, and more opportunity for growth.

In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs . Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in psychology , but most doctorate programs do not require it.

After you’ve been admitted to a graduate program, it generally takes at least four years to earn a Ph.D. and another year to complete an internship. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you can take state and national exams to become licensed to practice psychology in the state where you wish to work.

Once you enter the graduate level of psychology, you will need to choose an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology , counseling psychology, health psychology, or cognitive psychology . The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs in three areas: clinical, counseling, and school psychology.   If you are interested in going into one of these specialty areas, it's important to choose a school that has received accreditation through the APA.

For many students, the choice may come down to a clinical psychology program versus a counseling psychology program. There are many similarities between these two Ph.D. options, but there are important distinctions that students should consider. Clinical programs may have more of a research focus while counseling programs tend to focus more on professional practice. The path you choose will depend largely on what you plan to do after you complete your degree.

Of course, the Ph.D. in psychology is not the only graduate degree option. The Psy.D. is a doctorate degree option that you might also want to consider. While there are many similarities between these two degrees, traditional Ph.D. programs tend to be more research-oriented while Psy.D. programs are often more practice-oriented.

The Ph.D. option may be your top choice if you want to mix professional practice with teaching and research, while the Psy.D. option may be preferred if you want to open your own private psychology practice.

In the book "An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology," authors John C. Norcross and Michael A. Sayette suggest that one of the key differences between the two-degree options is that the Ph.D. programs train producers of research while Psy.D. programs train consumers of research. However, professional opportunities for practice are very similar with both degree types.

Research suggests that there are few discernible differences in terms of professional recognition, employment opportunities, or clinical skills between students trained in the Ph.D. or Psy.D. models. One of the few differences is that those with a Ph.D. degree are far more likely to be employed in academic settings and medical schools.

Social work, counseling, education, and the health sciences are other graduate options that you may want to consider if you decide that a doctorate degree is not the best fit for your interests and career goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering a Ph.D. in psychology, spend some time carefully researching your options and thinking about your future goals. A doctoral degree is a major commitment of time, resources, and effort, so it is worth it to take time to consider the right option for your goals. The Ph.D. in psychology can be a great choice if you are interested in being a scientist-practitioner in the field and want to combine doing research with professional practice. It's also great training if you're interested in working at a university where you would teach classes and conduct research on psychological topics.

University of Pennsylvania; School of Arts and Sciences. Information for applicants .

American Psychological Association. Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different?

U.S. Department of Labor.  Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (2020/2021 ed.) . New York, NY: The Guilford Press; 2020.

Davis SF, Giordano PJ, Licht CA. Your Career in Psychology: Putting Your Graduate Degree to Work . John Wiley & Sons; 2012. doi:10.1002/9781444315929

US Department of Education. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and discipline division: 2016-17 .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. and Psy.D.) – everything you need to know in 2024

What’s in this guide, ph.d. or psy.d..

• Why get a doctorate in psychology?

Entry Requirements

• PhD in psychology jobs
• How long does it take to study?

How to choose a program

How much does it cost, earning potential , find your degree.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A doctorate in psychology is a terminal degree typically lasting 4-7 years. It prepares graduates for independent research, clinical practice, or university-level teaching careers in psychology.

There are many reasons you may want to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology, the following guide will provide everything you need to know; from the options, costs, timeframes, career advantages and more.

First up, what are the two types of doctorate degree you can get and what are the differences?

The two doctorate degrees you can get in psychology are Ph.D. and Psy.D.

In simple terms, a Ph.D. in psychology is more research-focused, while a Psy.D. emphasizes clinical practice. The best choice between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer research and academia or direct clinical work.

Why study for a doctorate in psychology?

• Doctorate-level psychologists typically have higher earning potential compared to those with a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree in the field.
• Gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen area of specialization within psychology.
• Potentially make significant contributions to the field.
• Advanced career opportunities in various settings, such as academia, research institutions, government agencies, hospitals, and private practice.
• Connect with other professionals, researchers, and academics in the field of psychology, expanding your professional network

The minimum requirements to study a doctorate degree in psychology will vary from institution to institution. However, there are several common requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree:  all programs require applicants to have completed a  bachelor’s degree , in psychology or a related field. Some programs may accept candidates with a degree in another discipline if they have completed prerequisite coursework in psychology.
• Master’s degree : Some doctoral programs require applicants to have a  master’s degree in psychology  or a related field. Others may admit students directly from their bachelor’s degree and incorporate a master’s degree into the doctorate program.
• GPA : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, usually 3.0 or higher. Some competitive programs require a higher GPA.
• Letters of recommendation : Applicants typically need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to their academic and research abilities.
• Research experience : Prior research experience is often valued by doctoral programs in psychology. This may include experience working on research projects, completing a thesis, or participating in research internships or assistantships.
• Personal statement:  Applicants usually need to submit a personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines their academic and research interests, career goals, and why they are interested in the specific doctoral program.

Doctorate in psychology jobs

• Addiction Counselor
• ABA Therapist
• Mental Health Therapist
• Licensed Mental Health Conselor
• Licensed Professional Counselor
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Organizational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Professor of Psychology
• Child Psychologist

*Outside of the licensed psychologist jobs listed above many of the above roles  do not require a doctorate but it is important to note that employers for these roles are increasingly favoring candidates with a doctorate. 

How Long Does It Take To Study?

For the majority of students, a doctorate in Psychology may take anywhere from 4-7 years to finish, which will include a research dissertation and most likely residency or an internship in clinical or medical environments.

By far and away the question our career coaches get asked most frequently about doctorate degrees is how to choose a program. The choice of institutions and programs is truly overwhelming.

Here are some key factors to consider:

• Accreditation – Ensuring the program is accredited by the American Psychological Association . Accreditation affects the quality of education you will receive, your eligibility for professional licensure, and your job prospects after graduation.
• Program Focus and Curriculum –  Different programs may emphasize various aspects of psychology, such as clinical practice, counseling, research, or specific subfields like neuropsychology or health psychology. Match the program’s strengths and curriculum to your career interests and goals. Investigate whether the program offers courses and training that are critical to your desired career path.
• Faculty Expertise – Look into the backgrounds and areas of expertise of the faculty within the program. Consider how these align with your research interests or the professional skills you wish to acquire. Having mentors who are experts in your area of interest can provide invaluable guidance and opportunities for collaboration.
• Research Opportunities – For those interested in research, evaluate the resources available, such as labs, funding, and support for attending conferences or conducting fieldwork. Check if the program encourages or requires publications and what kind of support it offers to achieve these milestones.
• Clinical Training and Internships – For clinically oriented programs, look at the quality and variety of their practicum and internship placements. These are often required for licensure.
• Funding and Financial Support – Understand the types of financial support offered by the program, including teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and grants. Funding can significantly impact your experience by allowing you to focus more fully on your studies and research without needing to seek employment externally.
• Alumni Success and Networking Opportunities –  Investigate where alumni of the program are currently working. This can give you a sense of the program’s reputation and effectiveness in placing graduates in jobs. Additionally, networking opportunities through alumni networks, professional associations, and academic conferences can be critical for career development.
• Program Size and Student Support Services – Consider the size of the program and the ratio of faculty to students, which can affect the amount of individual attention and mentoring you receive.
• Location – Certain locations might offer better practicum, internship, and employment opportunities in your field of interest due to the presence of significant healthcare facilities, research institutions, or industries.

Depending upon the institution, method of study, location and type of program then you can expect to pay $25,000-$80,000 per year to study for a doctorate in psychology.

An online program would likely fall at the lower end of this range whilst an out of state student in a private university might expect to pay the upper end of this range.

Many psychology doctoral programs, particularly in research-oriented universities, offer funding packages to their students. These can include full or partial tuition waivers, health insurance coverage, and a stipend to help with living expenses

The average salary for an individual with a doctorate in psychology is $114,768.

Earning potential varies considerably by specialty, location and industry but we see roles requiring a doctorate advertised in the $80,000-$130,000 range.

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• PhD in Educational Psychology
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11 Careers for I-O Ph.D. Grads

Top careers in i/o psychology.

Industrial organizational psychology programs are available to undergraduate and graduate students.  Perhaps you took an introductory course in I O psychology while earning your bachelor’s degree.  Advanced education and training are essential for career advancement.  A master’s degree may be sufficient for many roles in I O psychology, but a doctorate degree can improve job prospects and income potential.  Organizational psychology degrees are offered by many top universities. 

I O psychology has been around since the 1920’s.  The first person to earn a PhD in industrial/organizational psychology was Bruce V. Moore.  He went on to make significant contributions to the field.  Dr. Moore created a strong I O psychology program at Penn State.

Featured Schools

Related resource:  Top 25 Campus-Based Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

But as with so many careers, the more education you have, the more variety you are likely to have in terms of:

• places of employment
• compensation

Getting your Ph.D. in I O psychology certainly opens up your career prospects on all three of these measures.

What can you do with a PhD in psychology ? If you’ve taken the time to get a doctoral degree in industrial organizational psychology, then you know that there are a wealth of career options for you. Doctoral programs in I O psychology prepare graduates to work in areas like:

• business and marketing
• market research
• human resources
• organizational development
• government agencies

What Does an Industrial Organizational Psychologist Do?

While the specific duties of your job will depend on your job title and place of employment, there are some basic responsibilities you can expect to have in any organizational psychology related career.

On a primary level, all I O psychologists apply their knowledge and understanding of psychology to the workplace.  You will lean on your years of education and experience in psychology to:

• improve employer-employee relations
• design an intake assessment for new employees
• increase productivity among employees

This application of psychology to the workplace setting can take many different forms. You might:

• Train new hires
• Improve the organizational structure of a business
• Oversee hiring practices
• Consult with human resources
• Conduct psychological research
• Improve the workplace environment
• Research consumer behavior
• Assess employee job performance
• Assist with company transitions, like mergers and takeovers

Again, some of these tasks are more common than others, and depending on your specific place of work, you may or may not be involved in all of them.

What Can I Do With a PhD in Psychology? 

Let’s explore some of the most popular career paths for I O psychology graduates.  Below we explain some popular industrial organizational psychology job titles .  

Individual Assessment and Psychometrics Specialist

In some companies, industrial organizational psychologists are tasked primarily with conducting assessments. Though the type of assessments will vary from position to position, the role of a psychometrist is to evaluate employees.  They want to place them in a job that best fits their skills.

For example, if you work for a manufacturing company, one of the assessments you give to prospective employees might be a hand-eye coordination test. This test could be highly informative as to whether or not a potential employee has the basic physical skills to keep up with a fast-paced assembly line.

As another example, you might be in charge of evaluating current employees. You might use interest inventories to see if there is a different job that fits their interests better. Likewise, you might conduct employee evaluations to see what their attitudes are like regarding management and the work environment.

Yet another aspect of this type of organizational psychology job is to develop bespoke assessments for your employer. You might create an employee screening test that looks for desirable skills that would benefit the company’s bottom-line.

Not only would you develop the measure but you might also be in charge of:

• analyzing test items
• calculating norms
• conducting statistical analyses
• writing assessment instructions

Engineering Psychologist

Unlike industrial organizational psychologist jobs like human resources that focus on the human side of the workplace, engineering psychologists focus on the physical aspects of the work environment.  They study how people interact with technology.

As an engineering psychologist, you might be asked to evaluate the safety of the workplace and identify potential areas where employee safety might be at risk. After this evaluation, you would make recommendations regarding how to reorganize the workplace to make it a safer environment for employees.

As another example, you might be hired by a company to analyze how consumers interact with a new product. You might oversee various trials in which volunteers use a product and report on their user experience. Your job would be to:

• collect that data
• interpret it
• use it to make recommendations on how the product can be improved for a better consumer experience

Research Psychologist

A number of industrial-organizational psychologist jobs are in research.  I O psychology professionals conduct research in a number of different settings including:

• colleges and universities
• nonprofit organizations
• governmental agencies (including the military
• and large business enterprises or corporations

For example, you might develop a longitudinal study that examines the relationship between paid leave and job satisfaction at a private company. This kind of research would seek to answer the question, “Does more paid leave result in higher job satisfaction?” In conducting this kind of research, you could help business leaders determine the right amount of paid leave to offer employees that enhance their satisfaction with the job, but that doesn’t negatively impact production or the company’s bottom line.

Think of industrial psychology jobs in research as looking at the big picture. You might study individual workers’ behaviors. You might examine small groups within a business or organization. Or you might evaluate the entire ecosystem of an organization. But at the end of the day, the research you do is intended to identify problems in the workplace and mitigate those problems through research-based methods.

College Professor

Some of these individuals teach. Others do research as referenced a moment ago more broadly. Still other people who earn a doctorate degree in this I O psychology focus on both teaching and writing.

Typically, career opportunities in academics come only after working in the “real world” in I O psychology. This is to say that college professors usually have experience in the field, and can draw on that experience to further their capabilities as a professor, researcher, or both.

In fact, the vast majority of psychology professors at colleges and universities have held positions outside of academics first. So, as a hopeful college professor, you will need to gain some on-the-job experience in I O psychology first, and then begin your career in academia later on. This doesn’t mean you need to work for 30 years in the field, but certainly having 5-10 years of job experience in I O psychology will help.

Behavior Analyst

Industrial organizational psychologists can use their knowledge and training in human behavior to become a behavior analyst.

As a behavior analyst, you might be asked to analyze the behavior of a company’s employees as they work on the floor of a manufacturing plant. Your goal would be to examine how environmental factors in the workplace affect employee behavior and on-the-job performance.

Furthermore, you might be tasked with considering how to change the workday to improve productivity. For example, if a company has noticed a downturn in employee productivity, you might be asked to explore what the cause of that lack of productivity might be. 

As you dive into the problem, you might find that a recent change in the work schedule is the culprit, and make recommendations to create a new schedule that better adheres to the times of greatest employee productivity.

As a behavior analyst, you aren’t just looking to identify problem behaviors and correct them. Instead, you want to be able to:

• describe a person’s behavior
• develop an understanding of it
• identify the circumstances in which certain behaviors occur
• devise ways to change behaviors for the benefit of the person (and the company, too, of course)

Human Resources

A significant cohort of women and men who earn a doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology work in the field of human resources. They do so in a number of different ways. 

For example, these professionals might work in human resources departments of larger business and governmental agencies. They may work as human resources specialists or as a human resources manager.  In this capacity, you might expect to have responsibilities that include:

• Interviewing and hiring new employees
• Developing effective training programs
• Training employees
• Improving workplace productivity
• Mediating workplace conflicts
• Assessing and evaluating employees
• Creating professional development opportunities

In some cases, you might be asked to represent individual workers in the company. For example, if an employee is facing termination, you might be asked to advocate on their behalf.

You might have a more specialized role.  Some I O psychology professionals work as training and development specialists or in ergonomics.  They might work in management consulting to provide outside perspectives and strategies to improve the organization.

Ultimately, the goal of a human resources position is to ensure that the overall culture within the business or organization is one of teamwork and respect for all employees.

Staffing and Recruiting Manager

A related career path to human resources is to become a staffing and recruiting manager.

As the job title indicates, this position focuses solely on recruiting new talent and helping fill vacant positions within a company. You would oversee all hiring processes. You would likely also be responsible for developing employee training programs.

Being able to identify a person’s potential requires you to lean heavily on your knowledge of psychology. You’ll need to utilize skills related to:

• interviewing
• predicting behavior
• analyzing behavior as well

What’s more, understanding what motivates people is hugely important. This position often requires you to direct efforts to retain employees. Leveraging your understanding of what employees find motivating can help you keep the best employees around for the long-term.

Executive Coach

Even the organizational leaders of Fortune 500 companies don’t have all the answers when it comes to the ideal direction for their company. That’s where executive coaches come in.

As an executive coach, you will consult with senior leadership executives to develop organizational and managerial skills that will help the company move forward in a positive direction.

In some cases, you might work directly with a single company executive. In others, you might be responsible for coaching the entire executive staff. Additionally, some executive coaches work with mid-management and lower-tier employees, usually in the capacity of encouraging ownership of the company vision and getting buy-in for company-wide changes.

Regardless of who you’re working with, your job as a coach involves a heavy dose of:

• assessing people
• developing professional development plans for them
• creating strategies for achieving goals
• effectively improving their job performance

Organizational Culture Specialist

Another area in which a person with a doctorate in industrial organizational psychology works is as an organizational culture specialist.

Industrial and organizational psychology jobs in this field involves researching and analyzing different aspects of the organization including:

• understandings

This research has the objective of translating these intangibles into a shared, cohesive sense of organization among employees of a business, members of an organization, and so forth.

For example, you might help develop an organizational mission statement that rallies employees behind a common cause. As another example, you might make recommendations about a corporate structure such that a culture of inclusivity is fostered between employers and employees, and within the different departments within a business as well.

Organizational Effectiveness Consultant

Another possible career for a Ph.D. graduate in industrial organizational psychology is an organizational effectiveness consultant.

A consultant in this capacity usually works hand-in-hand with executives and upper management to establish a clear set of goals for the organization. You might:

• define management processes
• help establish long-term goals for the company
• assist company leadership in developing a roadmap for achieving the company’s goals

In some cases, companies might have their own in-house organizational effectiveness consultant. More commonly, though, you would be an independent consultant that’s brought in to get the company headed in the right direction. PhD psychology jobs may also be available through consulting firms. You would then repeat the process with another client, and then another, and so on.

Public Relations

As a public relations specialist, your focus is on understanding what customers want, reaching target markets, and helping companies foster and maintain a positive public image.

This position isn’t just about branding and building consumer trust, though. Public relations is also about:

• identifying consumer needs
• evaluating public opinions
• helping craft marketing messages that resonate with consumers

Of course, another dimension of public relations is helping mitigate negative press. Understanding how to create a narrative – and control that narrative – is paramount in order to focus the public’s attention on what you want them to hear.

Which Career Path is Right for You?

As noted in the introduction, a doctoral degree in this field opens up many different career paths for you.  The most difficult part is likely deciding which of these paths best aligns with your interests and skill set.  Jobs for PhD in psychology graduates are available throughout the country.  If you’ve completed your bachelor’s degree or master’s degree and are ready to take your career to the next level, a PhD might be the right choice for you!

Fortunately, this is a rapidly growing field with a lot of potential for job growth. Though there aren’t many industrial organizational psychologists in the United States ( only about 610 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics), demand for I O psychology services is expected to grow in the coming years.

This field of psychology also pays quite well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a mean annual wage of nearly $113,000.  I O psychology graduates like yourself will likely have high demand and high wages awaiting you upon graduation.

Sean Jackson

B.A. Social Studies Education | University of Wyoming

M.S. Counseling | University of Wyoming

B.S. Information Technology | University of Massachusetts

Related Resources:

• What Can I Expect from an Industrial-Organizational Psychology Ph.D. Program?
• What are the Most Important Elements of an Industrial-Organizational Psychologists Job?
• Top 15 Industrial/Organizational Certificate Programs
• What Are Psychomotor Skills?

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

• Program Overview
• UC San Diego
• JDP Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee
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• SDSU Psychology Clinic
• Program Administration
• Program Faculty
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• Clinical Practicum
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SDSU / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology

About the Program

The program provides outstanding education and training to scientifically oriented research professionals who will make significant contributions to clinical psychology in their areas of specialization. The program combines the scholarly resources and offerings from the Department of Psychology in SDSU’s College of Sciences and the Department of Psychiatry in UC San Diego’s School of Medicine.

As a clinical science program, we emphasize integrating research and practice in training, activities, and experience, allowing students to participate in clinical research activities throughout the program. The development of research skills and attitudes is the foundation of training; clinical psychologists will have duties encompassing teaching, research, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, and program evaluation and design, including applying research skills and knowledge to various areas and settings. Our doctoral program enables students to be at the forefront of developments and applications in clinical psychology.

The program includes an initial two-year core curriculum of formal instruction followed by additional experience/instruction in the student’s chosen major area of study. The SDSU/UC San Diego JDP in Clinical Psychology curriculum is based on a twelve-month academic year. Students typically complete the program within five to six years, including an American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited internship.

Completion of the core curriculum ensures that all students have a common background in:

• Empirical psychology (biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Conceptualizations of psychopathology.
• Theory and techniques of psychological assessment.
• Therapeutic interventions and therapeutic skills.
• Experimental design and statistics.

Clinical activities, integrated with formal instruction, begin in the second year. Students will acquire higher clinical proficiency through practicum placements at nearly 30 training sites supervised by SDSU/UC San Diego joint-doctoral faculty representing research and clinical expertise in virtually every topic relevant to clinical psychology.

Major Areas of Study:

Specialized training is conducted through seminars, tutorials, and extensive research and clinical experience under faculty supervision. The APA-accredited clinical internship typically occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Whenever possible, clinical practica and therapeutic activities are coordinated with the student’s progression through courses and research activities. Summers are utilized to offer more concentrated research and clinical training.

For more information about the three areas, visit our Major Areas of Study page.

Program History

The SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology began in 1985, was first accredited by APA in 1990, and has been reaccredited consistently since then. Since 1949 and 1964, SDSU and UC San Diego, respectively, have been regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission . In addition, the School of Medicine at UC San Diego is accredited by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) .

The program emphasizes and appreciates broadly defined human diversity and offers extensive opportunities for students to become involved in research and clinical activities focused on diverse, underserved populations.

Recently, rankings calculated by the National Research Council (NRC) placed the SDSU/UC San Diego joint doctoral program among the top five psychology programs in the country, regardless of whether they were clinical or nonclinical. Similar rankings have been reported by Academic Analytics in 2010 and by Stewart, Roberts, and Roy (2007).

This program is a good-standing member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology (CUDCP), the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS), the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP), and the Association of Psychology Training Clinics (APTC). These organizations strive to provide quality education and training at the doctoral level, ensuring the doctoral program stays abreast of changes and developments in the field. 

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail: [email protected]

Wilson College Online Blog

With an emphasis on the mind-body connection, health psychology is a field of study that explores how a person’s behaviors and emotions can affect their physical well-being. 

Psychological factors can have a significant effect on physical health. For example, a 2023 article in Psychology Today describes how practicing mindfulness can lead to improvements in blood pressure, heart rate, and pain levels.

Individuals who are considering earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology and want to explore associated professional opportunities can benefit from learning about different types of health psychology careers they can potentially pursue.

What Is Health Psychology?

Health psychology centers on how people’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors affect their physical health (and vice versa). For example, according to a 2023 report in the journal Psychology and Psychiatry :

• People’s thoughts and emotions can affect the health of their cardiovascular and immune systems, their recovery from disease, and their hormone balance.
• Physical health issues—for instance, chronic health conditions, illness, and physical pain—can lead to psychological challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Weaving health psychology into traditional approaches to healthcare can promote positive health outcomes. For example, health psychology can be useful in:

• Losing weight
• Stopping smoking
• Improving nutrition
• Recovering from illness

As is the case with other types of psychology , health psychology can be useful in clinical healthcare, community health, occupational health, and public health settings.

5 Health Psychology Careers for Psychology Majors

The examples below are just a few of the careers in health psychology that people can pursue.

1. Health Education Specialist

Working as a health education specialist is a great way to apply health psychology expertise. Professionals in this role instruct both individuals and entire communities about behaviors that can help improve their health. 

Health education specialists have responsibilities such as assessing a community’s health needs, developing and implementing programs that teach people how to address those needs, and connecting people with other resources to improve or maintain their health.

In addition to knowledge of health psychology, skills in areas such as communication, problem-solving, and research can help health education specialists do their jobs well.

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), health education specialists:

• Had a median annual salary of $62,860 as of May 2023
• Are projected to see 7% job growth between 2022 and 2032 (a growth rate that exceeds the BLS’s 3% projected job growth for all occupations between 2022 and 2032)

2. Community Health Worker

Community health workers focus on helping people access healthcare and other related services they need. They also conduct outreach efforts and are advocates for the communities they serve.

Community health workers’ responsibilities include coordinating the provision of healthcare services to individuals and communities, conducting case management duties, and assisting people in accessing health insurance or food.

Knowledge of health psychology is useful when working as a community health worker, as are skills in areas such as empathy, communication, and developing relationships of trust with clients.

The BLS reports that community health workers:

• Had a median annual salary of $48,200 as of May 2023
• Are projected to see 14% job growth between 2022 and 2032

3. Healthcare Administrator

Knowledge of health psychology can be useful to healthcare administrators, who manage specific aspects of a healthcare organization’s operations.

Examples of healthcare administrators’ responsibilities include overseeing staff training, managing budgets and financial resources, and implementing initiatives to improve safety and quality of care.

To work as a healthcare administrator, an individual would need to supplement health psychology expertise with an education in an area such as business, healthcare administration, or public health. Moving up the career ladder in healthcare administration can require a graduate degree in one of those same disciplines.

Healthcare administrators excel in their roles when they have strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

The BLS includes healthcare administrators within the category of medical and health services managers, who:

• Had a median annual salary of $110,680 as of May 2023
• Are projected to see 28% job growth between 2022 and  2032

4. Mental Health Counselor

Health psychology careers also extend to mental health counseling. Mental health counselors provide clients with treatments and therapy to address issues such as depression, trauma, stress, and addiction. 

Mental health counselors can apply their knowledge of health psychology when assisting clients in forming coping skills and modifying their behavior to achieve specific goals. Skills in areas such as communication, critical thinking, and patience also are important in working as a mental health counselor.

Aspiring mental health counselors need to earn a master’s degree and become licensed in the state where they intend to practice.

The BLS reports that substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors:

• Had a median annual salary of $53,710 as of May 2023
• Are projected to see 18% job growth between 2022 and 2032

5. Health Psychologist

Health psychologists work in clinical settings offering services such as psychotherapy, and in community health settings creating health psychology programs and services for entire populations. They also work in public health settings advising on or helping to devise public health policies, and in occupational health focusing on improving the health of people who work in a specific environment.

Health psychologists benefit from cultivating skills in areas such as assessing patients, making sound observations, and demonstrating compassion.

To become a health psychologist, an individual would need to earn a doctoral degree and become licensed in their state.

According to the BLS, psychologists:

• Had a median annual salary of $92,740 as of May 2023
• Are projected to see 6% job growth between 2022 and 2032

Benefits of Earning a Degree in Psychology

Earning a degree in psychology can enable people to:

• Begin a career in health psychology or another psychology specialization in which they can pursue their passion
• Perform fulfilling work that makes a lasting difference in the lives of others
• Broaden their understanding of human behavior and apply that knowledge to improving people’s personal and professional relationships
• Strengthen key skills in areas such as critical thinking and informed decision-making
• Learn how to conduct research properly and interpret information

Careers in Health Psychology Offer Meaningful Work

Pursuing a health psychology career enables people to engage in important work helping others improve their health and well-being. Harnessing the power of the mind-body connection is a critical tool in achieving positive health outcomes. 

Individuals who are interested in subjects such as health psychology can explore Wilson College Online’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree program to learn how it can help them achieve their goals. With concentrations in healthcare, leadership and management, and general psychology, the program can help you lay the groundwork for a rewarding career. Start your education in the field of psychology today.

Recommended Readings

5 Alternative Careers for Psychology Majors

Online Therapy vs. In-Person Therapy

Psychology vs. social work: how are these fields different.

Indeed, “6 Steps to Becoming a Community Health Worker”

Indeed, “How to Become a Health Care Administrator in 5 Steps”

Indeed, “How to Become a Health Educator (With Steps)”

Indeed, “Learn About Being a Mental Health Counselor”

Psychology and Psychiatry , “Health Psychology: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection for Holistic Well-Being”

Psychology Today , “How Mindfulness Affects the Brain and Body”

Psychology Today , “The Many Benefits of Studying Psychology”

Society for Health Psychology, What Is Health Psychology?

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Community Health Workers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Health Education Specialists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical and Health Services Managers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychologists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

Verywell Mind, “10 Reasons to Major in Psychology”

Verywell Mind, “Studying Health Psychology and Illness”

Verywell Mind, “What to Know About Pursuing a Career in Health Psychology”

Recent Articles

4 Types of Psychology

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College of Education

School psychology doctoral program.

The University of Houston's School Psychology doctoral program is home to faculty and students committed to impacting the academic, behavioral and social-emotional functioning of children. Our faculty teaches students how to apply the core principles of school psychology inside and outside of schools. They challenge students to develop innovative solutions that connect the systems in which children and their families exist.

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About the Program

Our goal: Develop professional school psychologists who are engaged in applied research and ecologically sensitive evidence-based practice. To accomplish this, the School Psychology program adheres to a scientist-practitioner training model, and students learn to conceptualize according to an ecological-behavioral theoretical model. We aim to instill an awareness of diversity issues into our students, a task made easier considering the University of Houston’s status as one of our nation’s most culturally and linguistically diverse research institutions. That diversity extends to the program itself: almost one-half of our doctoral students claim non-Caucasian ancestry.

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 First Street NE Washington D.C. 20002-4242 Phone: (202) 336-5979 TDD/TTY: (202) 336-6123 Fax: (202) 336-5978 [email protected]

• Accredited by the American Psychological Association
• Approved by the National Association of School Psychologists
• 5 - 6 years to complete program without transferable graduate credit
• 4 - 5 years to complete program with prior graduate credit
• School Psychology Student Handbook
• Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data
• UH Graduate School

What will I learn while attending the school psychology program?

• Scholarly inquiry, research, writing and presentation skills
• Application of critical analysis and inquiry to existing research and the ability to identify, select, implement and evaluate evidence-based practices.
• Sensitivity to ecological, diverse and developmental considerations and concern for client preferences
• Exposure and supervised experience with diverse populations, conditions, professionals, settings and procedures.
• Understanding of the scientist-practitioner model which emphasizes an integrated, hierarchical sequence of coursework, practica, internship and research experiences

What can I do with my degree?

A doctoral degree in School Psychology prepares graduates for professional work as psychologists in academic and non-academic positions. Students who complete the program are prepared to apply for the following credentials:

• Licensed Psychologist
• Licensed Specialist in School Psychology
• National Certified School Psychologist
• Designation as a Health Service Provider by the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology
• Diplomate in School Psychology.

School Psychology Faculty

The following is a list of current school psychology faculty:, dr. jorge e. gonzalez.

School Psychology

Faculty Profile | Email

Dr. Kristen Hassett  (Affiliated Faculty)

Special Populations

Dr. Elizabeth Jelsma

Dr. milena keller-margulis, dr. michael matta, dr. bradley h. smith  (program director).

School Psychology 

• PHLS Homepage
• Our Programs

The School Psychology faculty's research ranges from Autism Spectrum Disorder and language development to student assessments and multilingual classrooms. Visit the PHLS Research Portal to learn more about our diverse interests and discover faculty pursuing answers to the questions that matter to you.

Feel free to contact faculty directly to learn more about their research. You can find contact information in the Research Portal or by visiting the COE Faculty Directory .

• PHLS Research Portal

Financial Aid

All School Psychology doctoral students are encouraged to apply for scholarships through the UH and the College of Education. To learn more about how to fund your graduate studies, visit the Graduate Funding page .

Graduate Tuition Fellowship

Graduate Tuition Fellowship (GTF) provides tuition remission for 9 credit hours, during the academic year, to students who enroll in at least 9 credit hours. During the summer term, GTFs are contingent upon available budget. Not all years in the graduate program may be covered by this program.

Assistantships

Graduate appointments are usually available to students during the first two years of graduate studies. The program doesn't cover mandatory fees or course fees. Not all years in the graduate program are covered by this program. 

To learn more about funding your education, contact the COE's College of Graduate Studies at  [email protected]  or call 713-743-7676.

• COE Financial Aid and Scholarships
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• UH Graduate Financial Information

Houston, Texas

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and one of the nation's most diverse cities. This fact benefits our students and faculty both personally and professionally. Home to more than 100 different nationalities and where more than 60 different languages are spoken, Houston is the perfect environment to practice what you're learning in the classroom. The city also boasts more than 12,000 theater seats and 11,000 diverse restaurants featuring cuisines from around the globe (Don't know where to start? Just ask a Houstonian, and they're sure to bombard you with at least a dozen places to eat.) 

Houston is bustling with culture, energy and offers something for everyone inside and outside the classroom.

(Background photo: “ Metropolis ” by eflon is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .)

• Student Housing & Residential Life
• Greater Houston Partnership - Welcome to Houston

Ready to Apply?

Are you ready to apply to the University of Houston School Psychology doctoral program ? Yes? You can learn more about the application process by visiting the College of Education's Graduate Admissions page  or jump right into the application process by visiting the UH's How to Apply to Graduate School page .

If you need more information about the School Psychology program, we are here to help. You can always contact the COE Office of Graduate Studies by phone at 713-743-7676  or by email .

The School Psychology doctoral program is a member of UH's Psychological, Health, & Learning Sciences department .

Program Director:  Dr. Brad Smith

UH College of Education Stephen Power Farish Hall 3657 Cullen Blvd., Room 491 Houston, TX 77204-5023

Undergraduate: [email protected] or 713-743-5000 Graduate: [email protected] or 713-743-7676 General: [email protected] or 713-743-5010

PhD in Clinical Psychology

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Fielding’s doctoral program in Clinical Psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association. It is the only distributed learning program accredited by the APA. The Psychology PhD serves adults, many of whom who have trained or worked in the mental health field. Our unique distributed learning model blends the best of in-person learning opportunities with digital formats.

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

For questions regarding the Clinical Psychology PhD Program contact [email protected].

About the Clinical Psychology Program

Application requirements.

Earning your doctorate in Clinical Psychology includes online and in-person seminars, meetings with faculty and other students in your region, weeklong residential sessions, as well as research and clinical training experiences.

The unique mix of online and residential learning provides flexible opportunities for individuals with career, family, and community responsibilities to achieve their advanced educational goals. Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, making it possible to offer training in a variety of therapeutic orientations and specialized concentrations in some of the most exciting growth areas of psychology.

• Conferred Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Online Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Critical Thinking Writing Sample
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcript
• No GRE Required

Start your application NOW!  

Apply now for fall 2025, student admissions, outcomes, and other data.

In accordance with requirements of the American Psychological Association (APA), Fielding Graduate University provides Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data pertaining to the education of our graduate students.

The Fielding Experience

• Become a member of a dynamic and diverse community of colleagues
• Interact with and learn from our expert faculty located all across the country
• Attend monthly professional development seminar in your geographic area
• Engage with alumni, faculty, and other students at sessions

Mission & Aims of the Program

Fielding’s APA accredited Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program is strongly aligned with the university’s mission to create a more humane, just, and sustainable world, and the university’s values that include academic excellence, community, diversity, and social justice.

Consistent with these values, a core mission of our program is to foster the inclusion of students from under-represented populations. These populations include students living in small communities, rural, or remote locations of the United States, students currently in the military or spouses of military members, adult learners with families, and students whose ongoing participation in their current communities cannot be halted for doctoral study elsewhere. These are student populations who are often unable to enter the field through preparation at a traditional university campus, yet these are the future psychologists for which the discipline and profession have expressed an urgent need.

In addition, our program aims to graduate entry-level scholar-practitioner psychologists who bring social justice values to their work as licensed health service professionals. Consistent with this overarching aim, we have four specific aims for our students, which must be achieved by the time of graduation.

• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level discipline-specific knowledge that represents the scientific and theoretical knowledge areas of the discipline of psychology (i.e., history and systems of psychology and the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level conceptualization, evaluation, analysis, and integration of discipline-specific knowledge across the curriculum.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level ability to understand and critique research; design, conduct, analyze, and communicate theoretically informed research; and conduct research in a manner that is culturally sensitive and consistent with legal code and ethical standards, including the APA ethics code.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level competence in the profession-wide competencies, including conducting an evidence-based diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapy; and applying theory and research to develop case conceptualizations, treatment plans, and interventions that are consistent with legal and ethical standards and individual and cultural diversity factors.

Serving adults, many of whom have trained or worked in the mental health field, our unique distributed learning model blends the best of face-to-face learning opportunities with digital formats.

Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, which allows us to offer specialized concentrations and training in a variety of therapeutic orientations.

Geographic Eligibility

The program only considers applicants who reside in the contiguous United States and Canada. The program is not available to those residing internationally (except Canada). Applicants from Alaska and Hawaii may be considered pending confirmation of their ability and resources to attend local professional development seminars in contiguous U.S. on a regular basis, access to acceptable practicum training sites, and ability to relocate for internship. (Contact [email protected] to be put in touch with the Program Director for consideration prior to applying.)

Due to state licensing requirements, graduates of the program are not eligible for licensure in Oklahoma. For licensure information on your particular state of interest, please visit our Professional Licensure page [CLICK HERE].

School of Psychology News

The latest news, announcements, and special events from Fielding’s School of Psychology.

Dr. Lauren Mizock Appointed 2024-25 Ruthellen Josselson Chair in Qualitative Inquiry

By Kaylin Staten | 2024-07-08T11:18:31-07:00 July 8th, 2024 |

Fielding University Press’ Struggling with Infertility Explores Devasting Effects of Infertility

By Kaylin Staten | 2024-05-10T07:48:56-07:00 May 10th, 2024 |

AWC-SB Honors Four Leaders in Education at Fielding Graduate University Sponsored Women of Achievement 2024 Awards Luncheon

By Fielding News | 2024-05-09T08:50:53-07:00 May 9th, 2024 |

Why Choose Fielding for Your Psychology Degree?

A conventional APA-accredited doctoral program delivered in an unconventional way

Join Over 7,500 Fielding Alumni Located Around The World!

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Recent Posts

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• IECD Program: A Student and Faculty Perspective 
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Preparing to Use Your Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

Understand how your skills, degree, experiences, and brand prepare you to land a job that’s the right fit for you.

Milestone One: Know What Skills in Your Coursework Are Sought by Employers

Employers are looking for motivated, committed, goal-oriented employees who will come to work on time, are prepared to use strong interpersonal and critical-thinking skills, and who will perform their job in a competent, productive, and positive manner. You should also be able to identify and describe how you used your undergraduate education to acquire and strengthen these skills during your interviews. One way to do this is to ask your professional references to provide examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in class, on an internship, or in other experiences.

Using the skills you’ve learned in your psychology curriculum is also crucial to your success. When you begin to understand these assets, you should be able to describe the knowledge and skills gained through the major, understand the value employers place on your knowledge and skills, and be able to explain the connection between the major and the job.

Psychology majors develop the skills needed to:

• Apply knowledge in psychology 
• Use scientific reasoning and think critically 
• Demonstrate ethical and social responsibility in a diverse world 
• Communicate (both oral and written communication) 
• Show professional development 

List developed through APA Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major (PDF, 447KB)

Employers seek applicants who can:

• Analyze and solve complex problems
• Effectively communicate (both oral and written communication)
• Display teamwork skills
• Think critically and display analytical reasoning skills 
• Show ethical judgment and strong decision-making skills 
• Demonstrate technology skills

List developed through Hart Research’s Falling Short? College Learning and Career Success (PDF, 317KB)

Learn more about the skills developed through your psychology degree:

• Transferable Skills: The Skillful Psychology Student (PDF, 40KB) You are prepared for success in the 21st century workplace with the skills you’ve developed and cultivated through your undergraduate psychology degree.
• Pride of Ownership: Do You Recognize the Value of Your Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology? “Pride of ownership” is used in real estate to refer to the benefit of owning a home and to the pride homeowners demonstrate through the maintenance of their property. Just as investing in a home results in pride, so should the investment you make in your bachelor’s degree in psychology. This article reviews what pride of ownership for your psychology degree is and what some potential threats may arise.
• Program Your GPS: Guidelines to Proficiency in Skills for Work and Career To what extent are you prepared for the workforce with a baccalaureate degree in psychology, and what can you do to strengthen your readiness? This article explores the roles that skill development occupies in your journey to your first post college job. (Starts at page 20)
• How to Maximize the Blessings and Minimize the Curses of Being a Psychology Major A psychology major prepares you for a remarkably wide variety of careers—but that array of options comes with a downside of deciding on a massive set of career choices. Explore the “blessings” and “curses” of being a psychology major and learn how to become and savvy student.

Learn more about the skills employers seek:

• Falling Short? College Learning and Career Success (PDF, 317KB) Selected findings from online surveys of employers and college students conducted on behalf of the Association of American Colleges & Universities.
• What employers seek in job applicants: You’ve got the skills they want What do employers seek in new hires? National surveys of employers show that they value skill sets such as critical thinking and problem solving more than specific majors. Psychology majors’ training places them at a distinct advantage over other graduates.
• Lighting The Way For Workplace-Bound Psychology Baccalaureates When applicants interview for a job, chances are that hiring managers will be more interested in exploring their abilities and skills than their coursework.
• Career skills to increase your marketability Employers value seven basic categories of skills in college graduates during the hiring process. The presence or absence of these skills may determine whether new college hires succeed or fail on the job.

Download a poster of Milestone One for your classroom (PDF, 129KB)

Milestone Two: Know What You Can Do With Your Degree in Psychology

Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors in the U.S., yet only 14 percent of psychology bachelor’s degree holders earned graduate degrees in psychology . So, what do the rest of graduates go on to do? Careers with an undergraduate degree in psychology genuinely vary. When considering careers, it’s essential to know your skill sets and what work best fits your personality and interests. Knowing that employers value many of the skills that psychology teaches, it’s up to you to start planning early and honing your skills ahead of graduation.

Popular career options for psychology majors:

• Sales (20%)
• Professional services (17%)
• Management / supervision (16%)
• Teaching (11%)
• Accounting / finance / contracts (9%)
• Employee relations (5%)
• Research (3%)

List developed through Datapoint: What do people do with their psychology degrees?

Other career possibilities:

• Health and medical services
• Law and law enforcement
• Social and human services
• Children and families
• Sport, fitness, and recreation
• Counseling and therapy
• Other emerging careers

List developed through Online career-exploration resource for psychology majors

• What do people do with their psychology degrees? Data show how career paths differ for doctoral, professional, master’s, and bachelor’s degree holders.
• Center for Workforce Studies data tool: Careers in psychology This data tool shows the types of occupations that psychology bachelor’s degree holders work in.
• What can you do with a bachelor’s degree in psychology? Like this title, the actual answer is complicated The psychology bachelor’s degree qualifies a person for a large number of jobs, but the degree does not uniquely qualify a person for any particular job.
• Psychology careers by the hundreds A free online resource from APA’s Division 2 (Society for the Teaching of Psychology) helps psychology students find the job that’s right for them.

Download a poster of Milestone Two for your classroom (PDF, 105KB)

Spotlight on Different Career Paths

Research careers with a bachelor’s degree in psychology

Careers in aging: A guide for undergraduates

Using your psychology degree for a career in advertising

Careers with a bachelor’s degree in psychology: An interview series

Milestone Three: Gain Diverse Applied Learning Experiences

In addition to recognizing the skills embedded in your psychology coursework and the skills employers seek, it’s also crucial to take advantage of different professional and educational experiences throughout your time as a student. Among the most important experiences employers look for are internships within the industry, leadership experiences, and general work experiences. But, there are additional ways to stand out to an employer. These experiences will help get you hired.

You can gain valuable experiences through:

• Internships
• A senior thesis project
• Courses involving significant writing
• Collaborative research projects
• Community service-learning projects
• Field projects in diverse communities
• Study abroad programs
• Nonpsychology minors in career-specific fields
• Work experience
• Leadership positions
• Extracurricular activities
• Informational Interviewing

List developed from Hart Research’s Falling Short? College Learning and Career Success (PDF, 317KB) , Burning Glass Technologies’ What can you do with a liberal arts degree? Plenty, with the right skills and National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2017 .

• National Science Foundation Internship Opportunities NSF funds a large number of research opportunities for undergraduate students through its REU Sites program. An REU Site consists of a group of undergraduates who work in the research programs of the host institution. Check out opportunities in the subject areas supported by various NSF units.
• Undergraduate Research Opportunities and Internships for Psychology Majors A comprehensive list of opportunities from different universities for psychology majors.
• Civic engagement and service learning Community service and volunteer work can be integrated with undergraduate psychology coursework to serve the community and to deepen students’ learning.
• Service learning in psychology Service learning in psychology combines students’ career development with volunteer activities that foster civic responsibility. It helps students understand principles of good practice in community service.
• Civic engagement Civic engagement is individual or collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern, including individual voluntarism, organizational involvement and advocacy.
• Talking through your career options Informational interviews could be the most important career tool you aren't using. On the surface, they appear as a simple way of learning more about a career, but in reality they provide students and seasoned professionals alike with new contacts in a world where networking reigns supreme.
• Informational interviewing Learn the benefits of and the six steps for informational interviewing.

Download a poster of Milestone Three for your classroom (PDF, 80KB)

Milestone Four: Market Yourself

You have a solid understanding of your skills, the skills employers seek, your career possibilities, and have participated in a variety of professional and educational experiences throughout your time in school. However, this doesn’t automatically guarantee you’ll get the job. Selling yourself is essential to success. Although it can feel uncomfortable, remember: if you’re not selling yourself, no one will.

• Participation in groups related to your areas of interest such as clubs, community groups, and professional organizations
• Strong writing samples that you’ve developed during your time in school or at your internships
• A clean social media presence including a strong LinkedIn profile to help you network and identify job opportunities
• An “elevator pitch” that will help you communicate what you’re looking for and prepare you for effective networking at colleges, universities, and community job fairs
• Convincing answers to challenging interview questions such as “How did you use your college education to develop the skills you will need to succeed in the job for which you are applying?”
• Professional and academic references that provide evidence and validation of your skills
• The job titles you are pursuing or will pursue and knowledge of the skills needed for the types of jobs
• Job search opportunities offered through your career services office, such as mock interviews, creating an e-portfolio, contacting psychology alumni, resume assistance, and similar opportunities
• A professionally formatted resume and tailored cover letters that connect your skills and experiences to job requirements

Professional organizations you can join:

• APA Divisions APA’s 54 divisions are interest groups organized by members. APA members, and even nonmembers, can apply to join one or more divisions which have separate eligibility criteria and dues. Certain divisions are accepting student affiliate members.
• Psi Chi: International Honor Society in Psychology Psi Chi is an international honor society whose purpose is to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, particularly in psychology, and to advance the science of psychology.
• Psi Beta: Community College National Honor Society in Psychology Psi Beta’s mission is to encourage professional development and psychological literacy of all students at two-year colleges through promotion and recognition of excellence in scholarship, leadership, research, and community service.
• Become an APA Student Affiliate Becoming a student affiliate gives you resources on careers, exclusive access to the latest psychology research, and invitations to unique networking opportunities.

Tips for cleaning up your social media profiles:

• Curating your online presence Visit these four sites before submitting your resume.
• The dos and don’ts of networking online Learn how to leverage social media to find a great career.
• LinkedIn profiles that get noticed With the sophisticated LinkedIn search tools being used by recruiters, you really do need to do everything you can to make it “easy” for them to find you.
• Writing powerful LinkedIn profiles Quick tips for quick improving your LinkedIn profile.

Resources to help you with networking:

• Managing first impressions at conferences What you’re wearing could be more important than what you’re saying. This resource provides advice if you’re presenting or attending a conference.
• Should I be networking? Exploring the importance of networking for students Yes. You should be networking…now. We know it can be daunting to think about building a professional network as an undergraduate or even graduate student. But, the reality of the situation is that building a professional network will likely open many doors and possibilities for you.
• Authentic networking to build your career A resource that highlights networking questions.
• Resume at work: Your opportunity to tell your professional story Psychology majors need to be able to tell their own story, and a well-prepared resume is a key tool in your storytelling toolkit. This article has three themes for creating the best resume possible.
• Never send a naked résumé: Tips for a great cover letter Whether hard copy or electronic, show your courtesy by prefacing your résumé with a cover letter that tells (or reminds) the recipient why you are sending them your résumé/CV. This article tells you what it takes to make a great cover letter and six ways to ruin your cover letter.
• Some differences between résumés and CVs Understand the key differences between a resume and CV.
• How to capture high-impact references Getting the right high-impact references can be as elusive and frustrating as trying to capture a golden snitch. This article covers the process of asking for references.

Download a poster of Milestone Four for your classroom (PDF, 67KB)

Who Will Help You Prepare

Utilize people and resources available to you throughout your career search.

• Career advisors 
• Academic advisors 
• Family and friends 
• Your network

Helpful Books

Showing 1 - 8 of 7

Information developed from

APA Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major (PDF, 447KB)

Falling Short? College Learning and Career Success (PDF, 337KB)

Datapoint: What do people do with their psychology degrees?

What can you do with a liberal arts degree? Plenty, with the right skills

National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2017

Post this information in your classroom!

To have a set of our posters mailed to you, please contact Martha Boenau .

Content for this page developed by Drew C. Appleby, PhD, Paul Hettich, PhD, Stacie Spencer, PhD.