While those with an bachelor’s degree in psychology do not have all of the same career options available to those with a master’s or doctorate, there are many entry-level jobs for college graduates with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. These career options might appear to have little to do with the field. However, an undergraduate education in psychology helps students develop skills that are important in a variety of careers. If you are interested in a career in this field, look for ways that you can gain practical experience now. Internships are an excellent way to get experience, find professional mentors, and build networking relationships in your chosen field. Employers value skills such as the ability to speak well and communicate effectively. If you are interested in working in this field, take classes that will improve your understanding of people and human behavior. Courses in social psychology, personality, and communications can be especially beneficial.
Case manager Mental health technician Psychiatric technician Rehabilitation specialist Social work assistant Partial care worker
These workers aid clients in inpatient and outpatient settings who have a variety of mental health concerns. In most cases, people in these jobs work under the supervision and guidance of a licensed clinical psychologist or social worker. Job duties involve helping patients with basic daily needs, teaching life skills, conducting applied therapy sessions, and performing related case management tasks. Some psychology majors choose to work with adults with disabilities who may need skills training, job search help, on-the-job training, and regular workplace supervision. These professionals supervise offenders in home, work, and school settings to track behaviors; make recommendations to the courts; and coordinate with drug treatment professionals or therapists. If this is the kind of post-psychology degree job that interests you, you can gain valuable research experience while you’re still an undergrad. Sign up for a research assistant position at your university, or consider taking an internship in a psych lab. Some important skills for those working in the social service field include the ability to assess client needs, keep thorough and accurate records, express care and empathy, and to act as advocates for clients. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, you might be able to enroll in an accredited teacher education program in order to earn a teaching certificate in your state. Contact your state’s board of education to learn more about the requirements and any alternative routes to becoming a credentialed teacher that might be available. Another option is to work as a paraprofessional, in which you assist a teacher in a classroom or serve as a one-on-one aide to a student with special needs. These positions do not require a master’s degree or teaching certificate.
CreativityCritical thinkingEffective written communicationKnowledge of group and organizational behaviorOne-on-one and small group communicationUnderstanding of individual human behavior
It is important to note that the greatest opportunities will be for those with a doctorate degree. “Opportunities directly related to psychology will be limited for bachelor’s degree holders,” says the Bureau of Labor Statistics in its Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Some may find jobs as assistants in rehabilitation centers or in other jobs involving data collection and analysis. Those who meet state certification requirements may become high school psychology teachers.”
A Word From Verywell
While job opportunities and earnings potential are more limited with a bachelor’s degree compared to a graduate degree, there are still plenty of job options out there for those who have a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Take advantage of the job resources available through your university. Many universities host job fairs, and most schools have designated career resources centered on helping students and alumni look for work.
Social services assistantPsychiatric technicianMental health advocateHome care aideTeacher’s aide/paraprofessionalChildcare worker or youth counselorPolice officer or corrections officerResearch assistant
If you think that you will enter the job market once you earn your bachelor’s degree, look for jobs or internships that allow you to gain experience in your chosen field. That might mean coaching, mentoring, or caring for kids if you are interested in education; working for the human resources department in a business; or working in a retail store if you are interested in sales.
