What can you do with a bachelor’s in psychology? 5 careers
.jpg)
Psychology consistently ranks as one of the most sought-after college majors across the nation. However, a prevailing misconception persists — the notion that a bachelor's degree in psychology offers limited career paths. This assumption is driven by the requirement of those aspiring to practice clinical psychology to obtain a doctoral degree.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), approximately 25 percent of graduates holding a bachelor's degree in psychology choose to advance their studies in the field at a graduate level, with an additional 18 percent opting for further education in different disciplines.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that 57 percent of these graduates follow a different path by transitioning into the workforce upon securing their bachelor's degree. The APA recognizes that a bachelor's degree in psychology presents a diverse skill set with interdisciplinary applicability, extending its reach to a variety of professions including business, social work, academia, and more.
According to Dr. Vanessa Holtgrave, full-time psychology professor at UMass Global, “Psychology is a beautifully complex field of study. At times, it seems like a patchwork collection of other disciplines. Other times it's evident that it is its own wildly unique field of study. What started as a largely esoteric pseudoscience, transitioned into a much grander discipline. To me, psychology is one of those fields of study that straddles the line between hard science and the unknown.”
So, what exactly can one aspire to achieve with a bachelor's degree in psychology? The truth unveils a landscape rich with opportunities, exceeding initial expectations. Continue reading to explore five prospective career pathways within this dynamic field.
Career Options with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
A bachelor's degree in psychology opens doors to a wide array of compelling career options that allow individuals to apply their understanding of human behavior and mental processes. The versatility of psychology programs ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute positively to a broad spectrum of professions.
Business
A bachelor’s degree in psychology can be a strategic asset in the world of business, offering a unique perspective on human behavior and decision-making. Graduates with a background in psychology often find themselves excelling in various business careers.
For instance, human resources professionals frequently rely on their understanding of individual and group dynamics to hire and manage employees effectively, foster workplace harmony, and promote employee well-being. Market researchers and marketers leverage their knowledge of consumer behavior to analyze trends, identify opportunities, and inform marketing strategies. Thus, a psychology degree proves to be a valuable asset for those seeking to thrive in the dynamic and people-centered landscape of business careers.
Some of the most popular business jobs for those with a bachelor’s degree in psychology include:
- Data Analyst
- Human Resources Manager
- Training and Development Manager
- Research Analyst
- Management Analyst
Mental Health and Psychology
A bachelor's degree in psychology provides a solid foundation for individuals who aspire to make a significant impact in the field of mental health and psychology. While clinical roles as licensed psychologists require advanced degrees, there are numerous essential support roles accessible to bachelor's degree holders.
Careers in mental health support allow graduates to work both directly and indirectly with individuals facing mental health challenges, often aiding therapists and counselors in supporting clients on their journey to improved mental well-being. However, for those interested in working in behavioral health settings such as addiction or as a psychiatric technician, additional training and/or certification is required.
Careers for those with a bachelor's degree in psychology offer the chance to contribute positively to the lives of individuals dealing with mental health issues while also providing valuable experience for those considering further education in psychology or related disciplines.
Popular mental health field job options with a bachelor's degree in psychology include:
Social Services
A bachelor's degree in psychology serves as a robust foundation for individuals seeking rewarding careers in the realm of social services. This field encompasses a wide spectrum of roles that involve aiding and advocating for individuals and communities in need. Case managers work with diverse populations, coordinating and monitoring social service programs to ensure clients receive comprehensive support.
The versatile skill set cultivated through a psychology degree equips professionals in social services with the empathy, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities essential for making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.
Common social services jobs for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in psychology include:
Additional Career Paths
A bachelor's degree in psychology offers a flexible foundation for a diverse set of careers outside of the ones listed above. Graduates are equipped with valuable skills such as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication, which can be applied to various fields.
In education, psychology undergraduates excel as school counselors or educational consultants, helping students navigate personal and academic challenges. Research skills acquired during psychology programs are transferable to roles in labs and academia, contributing to evidence-based decision-making.
The adaptability and analytical prowess developed through psychology programs make graduates well-suited for careers where understanding human behavior and conducting analysis are fundamental, even outside the conventional domains of psychology, business, and social services.
Additional jobs you can get after graduating with a bachelor’s in psychology include:
- Admissions Counselor
- Secondary School Teacher
- Lab or Research Assistant
- Wind Energy Development Managers
- Regulatory Affairs Managers
- Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
- Coaches and Scouts
Soft Skills Psychology Graduates Can Utilize in Their Career
A bachelor's degree in psychology provides an ideal platform for honing essential soft skills that are highly sought after by employers. Throughout the psychology programs, students develop exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, enabling them to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, actively listen, and empathize effectively.
Dr. Marnie Elam, a full-time psychology professor at UMassGlobal, states, “There is nothing that you will ever do in your life that won’t involve psychology. Everything we do in love, work, and within and for ourselves or others involves psychology. So, studying psychology at any level will help you to understand the world, other people, and yourself better, and the more we understand those things, the better we are at managing life and getting what we need and want.”
Psychology programs cultivate critical thinking allowing graduates to analyze complex situations, consider multiple perspectives, and develop creative solutions. Psychology programs also foster strong research skills, including data collection and analysis, which are valuable for evidence-based decision-making. These soft skills, combined with a profound understanding of human behavior, make psychology graduates adaptable, emotionally intelligent, well-rounded leaders.
Additional skills psychology undergraduates obtain that employers find useful include:
● Collaboration/Teamwork
● Computer/Technology Skills
● Cultural Competence/Agility
● Growth Mindset
● Openness to Feedback
● Time Management
● Work/Intern Experience
● Written Communication
Understand and Help Better the World with UMass Global
The UMass Global online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology empowers individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the world and make a meaningful impact on people's lives. You'll receive comprehensive support while conducting independent research projects, and exploring elective courses.
Dr. Vanessa Holtgrave, a full-time psychology professor at UMass Global, provides insight into what makes the psychology program at UMass special. “Our students get the opportunity to work with highly qualified faculty who are specialists in their own respective fields. The opportunity to learn from mentors, who are experts, provides students with a unique experience to open their eyes to the potential that exists within the field. Our thriving psychology club also uses experts to connect with student members in a way that helps our students make deeper connections about the content.”
Our online program also offers the flexibility of specialized degree concentrations, including child psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, and course concentrations that lead to advanced studies in psychology. If you are interested in learning more about our bachelor’s in psychology degree program you can request information, or apply to begin your journey to a career in psychology today.
Please note: For all occupations listed throughout this blog, you can find more information about them here.
Become a Student
Have questions about enrollment, degree programs, financial aid, or next steps?