A doctoral degree usually is required for independent practice as a psychologist, and a master’s or specialist degree is required to work as a school psychologist. A bachelor's degree in psychology, however, can open the door to assisting psychologists and other professionals in community mental health centers, vocational rehabilitation offices, and correctional programs.
Bachelor's degree holders may also work as administrative assistants for psychologists. A graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology may also find employment in fields such as sales, service, or business management.
Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology
Bachelor's degree programs in psychology typically begin with current theory, as well as the historical contributions theorists such as Freud, Adler, Jung, and many others. Some more specific subjects of study include self-analysis, dream theory, free association, and transference theory. There is also a strong focus on correct medical procedure and the importance of the adherence to a strong code of ethics. Social and political influences on the field of psychology are also discussed.
The following courses are commonly included in bachelor's degree programs:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Psychology Statistics
- Conditional Learning
- Physiological Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
Undergraduate elective courses may include:
- Sensation and Perception
- Motivation, Health Psychology
- Psychology of Stress
- Approach to Human Communication
What Can You Do With a College Degree in Psychology?
Psychologists provide mental health care in many different facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, or private settings. Psychologists use techniques such as interviewing and testing to help people deal with problems on a daily basis.
The academic and private segments of the field offer the most opportunity for those who wish to pursue a career in psychology. Many graduates of advanced psychology degree programs choose to pursue a career in academics, teaching future psychologists and extending their own education through research and collaboration with students and colleagues. Those who choose an academic setting are able to draw on their educational backgrounds each day. University psychologists usually have to fulfill teaching, administrative, and research responsibilities. Some psychologists employed in academia also maintain a part-time consulting practice.
Psychologists who choose to go into private practice have a direct impact on their patients' daily lives. The relationship between the psychologist and the patient is highly personal. The psychologist must uphold the doctor-patient contract of confidentiality. Psychology students are taught about the importance of communication and trust. Those in private practice must learn how to separate their professional lives from their personal lives and ensure that they don't "bring their work home." Separation and compartmentalization techniques are vital to the success of professionals in the mental health field.
Source: www.worldwidelearn.com
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A friend of mine wanted to go into forensic psychology when she was an undergraduate, but got a rude awakening when she found the field has almost no jobs available in any given year (like, maybe a dozen openings a year across the entire country). You'd have an easier time finding a job teaching social studies.
With some graduate training in clinical psychology, you might be able to go into practice in the military or the prison system. I'm not sure how the prison system openings are looking at the moment, but the military is usually looking for more.
Take general psych in undergraduate school with a course in forensic psych if it is offered. For a career in this field you need a doctorate, probably a Ph.D., possibly a Psy.D. You can concentrate on the forensic area in your doctoral work after you have met the basic doctoral course requirements.