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What to do if I am finishing an associates degree in Marketing but want to later obtain bachelors in Psychology??
I have a lot going on .
I am 33.
I am a massage therapist.
I have quite a bit of student loan debt.
I have quite a bit of aspirations.
I am currently finishing my associates in marketing management. What is some advice on navigating towards a bachelor degree in psychology?
I've found my passion later in life. Working with planned parenthood is what I believe my goal to be. I am very passionate about the increase of children growing in dysfunctional environments due to unready parents.
How can I fulfill this passion? A degree is desired but maybe there are other routes.
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8 answers
Updated
Leah’s Answer
Hi Jodecie!,
First, congratulations of discovering what your true passions are! Some people never get to that point, so I think it's incredible that you have. Chat with your college advisor to see if you're able to transfer the credits you've completed to a Bachelor's in Psychology. If they're able to help you out to get those over, then that's AMAZING and you're in the right track to move forward toward your passion. If that conversation doesn't turn out the way you planned, then here are a couple of things I would consider.
1.) Student loans are such a pain. Depending on how much you have left to pay, I would try and finish the current degree you have and working as a massage therapist until those balances are lower.
2.) Once you graduate, see if you're able to find a marketing position within Planned Parenthood or an equivalent to that. From there, you can work for a company you're passionate about and save to go back to school. You might learn that just working for them is fulfillment enough :) Another option would be to volunteer as much as your can as an alternative to working there, so those that are employed there recognize you when you go to apply in the future. If you see that you really want to dive into that Psychology degree, then you can move onto the next step.
3.) Once you've saved a chunk of money, I'd recommend going to a community college to start your next degree. Community colleges are definitely more affordable and you can always transfer somewhere else if you choose to. While going to school, you can continue to work with your marketing degree and save up. If you happen to not work at Planned Parenthood or an equivalent at this time, find an employer that allows for tuition reimbursement to help cover costs. You can also take free classes online at Khan Academy, LinkedIn Learning, etc. to get certifications and get a foundation of Psychology, specifically with children.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
First, congratulations of discovering what your true passions are! Some people never get to that point, so I think it's incredible that you have. Chat with your college advisor to see if you're able to transfer the credits you've completed to a Bachelor's in Psychology. If they're able to help you out to get those over, then that's AMAZING and you're in the right track to move forward toward your passion. If that conversation doesn't turn out the way you planned, then here are a couple of things I would consider.
1.) Student loans are such a pain. Depending on how much you have left to pay, I would try and finish the current degree you have and working as a massage therapist until those balances are lower.
2.) Once you graduate, see if you're able to find a marketing position within Planned Parenthood or an equivalent to that. From there, you can work for a company you're passionate about and save to go back to school. You might learn that just working for them is fulfillment enough :) Another option would be to volunteer as much as your can as an alternative to working there, so those that are employed there recognize you when you go to apply in the future. If you see that you really want to dive into that Psychology degree, then you can move onto the next step.
3.) Once you've saved a chunk of money, I'd recommend going to a community college to start your next degree. Community colleges are definitely more affordable and you can always transfer somewhere else if you choose to. While going to school, you can continue to work with your marketing degree and save up. If you happen to not work at Planned Parenthood or an equivalent at this time, find an employer that allows for tuition reimbursement to help cover costs. You can also take free classes online at Khan Academy, LinkedIn Learning, etc. to get certifications and get a foundation of Psychology, specifically with children.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Updated
Sabrina’s Answer
Hello! You have great aspirations and I applaud you for that! I am a 35-year-old massage therapist and I am just now finishing up my bachelors Degree in psychology.
What I have came to find out is that there’s really not much you can do with a bachelors degree in psychology. Unfortunately, to be able to work as a therapist you have to get a masters or a doctorate degree in psychology if that is your goal. However, you can work as a ABA therapist with a bachelors in psychology and companies are always looking to fill these positions as they can be demanding and straining.As far as marketing, I do hear that there’s a higher demand. What I’ve decided to do is a master program in occupational therapy. I would say psychology is a broad Feilds so there is a lot you can do and it’s really interesting.
What I have came to find out is that there’s really not much you can do with a bachelors degree in psychology. Unfortunately, to be able to work as a therapist you have to get a masters or a doctorate degree in psychology if that is your goal. However, you can work as a ABA therapist with a bachelors in psychology and companies are always looking to fill these positions as they can be demanding and straining.As far as marketing, I do hear that there’s a higher demand. What I’ve decided to do is a master program in occupational therapy. I would say psychology is a broad Feilds so there is a lot you can do and it’s really interesting.
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi Jodecie,
It’s inspiring that you’ve found your passion and want to make a difference, especially through supporting children and families with organizations like Planned Parenthood. Transitioning from marketing to psychology might seem daunting, but it’s definitely achievable, even while managing your current responsibilities and financial situation. Since you’re finishing an associate’s degree in Marketing Management, you already have valuable skills in communication, outreach, and strategic planning that can be useful in nonprofit work. Instead of seeing your marketing background as unrelated, think of it as an asset, as organizations like Planned Parenthood need professionals who can effectively advocate, build community connections, and manage campaigns. To pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, consider transferring credits from your associate’s degree to reduce your course load and save money. You might also explore part-time or online programs to maintain your current job while studying. Additionally, volunteering or interning at local organizations related to social work or family support can give you practical experience while you work toward your degree. If going back to school right away feels overwhelming, you can start by looking for roles within Planned Parenthood or similar organizations that align with your marketing skills, and then gradually transition to more psychology-focused positions as you gain education and experience. Your passion for helping families and children is a strong foundation, and combining that with your marketing expertise can open doors to meaningful work while you work toward your long-term goal.
It’s inspiring that you’ve found your passion and want to make a difference, especially through supporting children and families with organizations like Planned Parenthood. Transitioning from marketing to psychology might seem daunting, but it’s definitely achievable, even while managing your current responsibilities and financial situation. Since you’re finishing an associate’s degree in Marketing Management, you already have valuable skills in communication, outreach, and strategic planning that can be useful in nonprofit work. Instead of seeing your marketing background as unrelated, think of it as an asset, as organizations like Planned Parenthood need professionals who can effectively advocate, build community connections, and manage campaigns. To pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, consider transferring credits from your associate’s degree to reduce your course load and save money. You might also explore part-time or online programs to maintain your current job while studying. Additionally, volunteering or interning at local organizations related to social work or family support can give you practical experience while you work toward your degree. If going back to school right away feels overwhelming, you can start by looking for roles within Planned Parenthood or similar organizations that align with your marketing skills, and then gradually transition to more psychology-focused positions as you gain education and experience. Your passion for helping families and children is a strong foundation, and combining that with your marketing expertise can open doors to meaningful work while you work toward your long-term goal.
Updated
Steve’s Answer
If you're already close to finishing the marketing degree, you could look for companies with open roles that have tuition reimbursement. That way, you could start bringing in income to lower your debt and pursue the new degree and career without taking on any additional debt.
Psychology and marketing have synergy, so the degree would either make you a more valuable marketer or give you the option to change your path.
Psychology and marketing have synergy, so the degree would either make you a more valuable marketer or give you the option to change your path.
Updated
Brendan’s Answer
As I'm sure you've heard before, college is more about learning how to think, and is meant as a stepping stone, rather than an exact blueprint of what you'll be doing in your role in the future. As long as you can spin your experiences in a positive way and draw parallels to your journey to your future role, there really is no path that is out of reach.
Updated
Chiquria’s Answer
Your journey is truly inspiring, and it's never too late to chase your passion, especially when it means making a difference in other people's lives. Here are some simple and encouraging steps to help you move from an Associate's in Marketing to a Bachelor's (and maybe a fulfilling career) in Psychology, with extra options along the way:
1. Transferring to a Bachelor’s in Psychology
Explore Transfer Policies: Many four-year colleges welcome transfer credits from associate degree programs, even if your background is in marketing. Reach out to the admissions or transfer office for psychology programs you like; you might fulfill general education requirements and shorten your time to degree.
Pick an Accredited Program: Public universities and many online programs, like Arizona State Online or Southern New Hampshire University, offer psychology majors with flexible schedules for adults.
Get Ready for Prerequisites: Some psychology courses may need introductory prerequisites, but marketing/business courses often count as electives.
2. Minimize Further Debt
Compare Tuition & Aid Options: Public state universities, community colleges with transfer agreements, and online schools often offer the best value.
Apply for Scholarships/Grants: Look for guides for non-traditional/adult students, psychology majors, and women returning to school.
Check if Your Employer (or future employer) offers tuition reimbursement.
3. Gain Experience in Human Services Alongside Your Degree
Volunteer Now: Many organizations, like Planned Parenthood, community mental health centers, and crisis hotlines, welcome volunteers regardless of degree completion.
Entry-Level Positions: Some roles, such as case manager or patient advocate, require only an associate’s degree or high school diploma plus a willingness to train.
Certifications: Consider mental health first aid, crisis intervention, or child advocacy certifications available in short courses or workshops.
4. Alternative and Allied Routes
If you want to work in counseling or family services, there are other meaningful paths in the field:
Social Work (BSW/MSW): Some credits from your associate's may transfer, and many social services roles are open to BSWs.
Human Services Degree: Offers a broader scope than psychology and can meet similar career goals.
Behavioral Health Technician: Short-term certificate programs or on-the-job training.
5. Networking and Professional Development
Join associations like the American Psychological Association (APA) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) as a student member.
Attend workshops, talks, or virtual events hosted by Planned Parenthood or local non-profits to build connections and learn about opportunities.
6. Plan for the Long-Term
If you discover through coursework and volunteering that you want to pursue advanced work like counseling or therapy, plan for graduate school. However, many meaningful roles exist with a bachelor’s degree or certificate plus experience.
Remember, you are not behind at all—many people find their calling in their 30s or later! Your background in marketing and massage therapy brings unique, transferable skills to your new path, such as communication, empathy, and people skills.
1. Transferring to a Bachelor’s in Psychology
Explore Transfer Policies: Many four-year colleges welcome transfer credits from associate degree programs, even if your background is in marketing. Reach out to the admissions or transfer office for psychology programs you like; you might fulfill general education requirements and shorten your time to degree.
Pick an Accredited Program: Public universities and many online programs, like Arizona State Online or Southern New Hampshire University, offer psychology majors with flexible schedules for adults.
Get Ready for Prerequisites: Some psychology courses may need introductory prerequisites, but marketing/business courses often count as electives.
2. Minimize Further Debt
Compare Tuition & Aid Options: Public state universities, community colleges with transfer agreements, and online schools often offer the best value.
Apply for Scholarships/Grants: Look for guides for non-traditional/adult students, psychology majors, and women returning to school.
Check if Your Employer (or future employer) offers tuition reimbursement.
3. Gain Experience in Human Services Alongside Your Degree
Volunteer Now: Many organizations, like Planned Parenthood, community mental health centers, and crisis hotlines, welcome volunteers regardless of degree completion.
Entry-Level Positions: Some roles, such as case manager or patient advocate, require only an associate’s degree or high school diploma plus a willingness to train.
Certifications: Consider mental health first aid, crisis intervention, or child advocacy certifications available in short courses or workshops.
4. Alternative and Allied Routes
If you want to work in counseling or family services, there are other meaningful paths in the field:
Social Work (BSW/MSW): Some credits from your associate's may transfer, and many social services roles are open to BSWs.
Human Services Degree: Offers a broader scope than psychology and can meet similar career goals.
Behavioral Health Technician: Short-term certificate programs or on-the-job training.
5. Networking and Professional Development
Join associations like the American Psychological Association (APA) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) as a student member.
Attend workshops, talks, or virtual events hosted by Planned Parenthood or local non-profits to build connections and learn about opportunities.
6. Plan for the Long-Term
If you discover through coursework and volunteering that you want to pursue advanced work like counseling or therapy, plan for graduate school. However, many meaningful roles exist with a bachelor’s degree or certificate plus experience.
Remember, you are not behind at all—many people find their calling in their 30s or later! Your background in marketing and massage therapy brings unique, transferable skills to your new path, such as communication, empathy, and people skills.
Updated
Monica’s Answer
The first response to your question was very solid! I would also suggest that you connect with a college advisor at your school to review with of your current courses are applicable toward your baseline psychology courses.
If you plan on staying with your same school or if you have a future college in mind, you can review the course syllabus to understand the required courses for your bachelor’s degree.
I worked full time while attending school, so I understand the juggle. As you schedule time in your calendar for study, schedule time also for reviewing your future path and build small goals to push yourself forward.
Celebrate the wins because you have them!
If you plan on staying with your same school or if you have a future college in mind, you can review the course syllabus to understand the required courses for your bachelor’s degree.
I worked full time while attending school, so I understand the juggle. As you schedule time in your calendar for study, schedule time also for reviewing your future path and build small goals to push yourself forward.
Celebrate the wins because you have them!
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Marketing + Psychology are a great professional combination, ultimately what we seek in marketing is to create strategies to reach the consumer and for that we must understand them, how they think, how they behave, what they like, how they react and psychology gives you a great understanding of this, so the path of having both degrees is perfect.