I am pursuing a major in psychology this fall, what would be a wise minor to get along with a psychology major?

Dear Kaedyn,

Unfortunately there are not many positions that require only an undergraduate psychology degree. I agree with Laura that minoring in business could give you valuable skills and entre to private sector jobs. I also read frequently that employers value good communication skills as much or more than specific job skills, so minoring in an area that requires a lot of writing and analysis could be helpful. This is more speculative on my part, but perhaps a minor in computer science could be useful. A young woman I know graduated with a degree in theater arts, but she also picked up a lot of computer skills and was hired by Microsoft when she graduated.

I hope these suggestions are helpful. I wish you the best in your educational and career pursuits.

Hi Kaedyn,
I would suggest one of several different minors (next paragraph) ...your interest/passion in another disciplinary area should guide you. As a new university student, I would recommend exploring coursework before making a decision about a minor - you might discover something that you hadn't considered. Also a conversation with your advisor is recommended.

Here are my practical suggestions:
1. Communications. Oral and written communication skills are essential to success in all professional occupations.
2. Foreign language. Developing fluency in another language (spoken and written) will enhance your employability, especially in urban areas.
3. Business or economics.

Good luck with your studies!

Hi Kaedyn! I suggest minoring in something that you have an interest in that would go well with your psychology major. The best place to start would be to talk to you advisor or dean of your department.

Hi Kaedyn,
I majored in psychology in undergrad while also receiving a minor in business. I later continued my education to receive my Masters in Human Resource Management. I would recommend you consider minoring in some area of business as it opens many other career opportunities in case you determine you don’t want to work in counseling psychology. There are many areas of business that apply psychological concepts. Some areas include: marketing research, marketing, business consulting, Human Resources, and Industrial Organizational Psychology.

If you do continue to pursue your interest in clinical psychology, a minor in business will also be helpful if you decide to set-up and run your own practice. Having some knowledge of running a business may prevent you from needing to hire a business manager.