4 answers
Cherie
Student
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
2
Questions
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What's the most uselful graduate degree in psychology?
I'm working on a degree in psychology, but don't necessarily want to be a clinical psychologist. I'm fascinated by cognitive, social, and political psychology. Are careers realistically available in these areas, and if so what degree would be necessary? #psychology #politics #consulting #social-psychology #forensic-psychology #cognitive-psychology #cognition
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4 answers
Patty Land
Project Management Technology Consulting
1
Answer
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Patty’s Answer
Hi Cherie, great question! Many people find themselves in this very situation, as Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors, yet few of those actually go on to work in the traditional field of Psychology. I did a dual undergraduate major in Psychology and Sociology; like you, I've always been fascinated by how people relate to each other and the world around them. This isn't just a career interest for you, it's a character trait, and that's important to remember, because you can use those character traits in a really broad range of career opportunities.
While in college, I started volunteering in a Cognitive Psychology research lab on campus, and I really liked that. You can gain a much deeper understanding of the opportunities out there (and expand your network) by getting involved in research. After I graduated, I continued working in research as a project coordinator, and then moved to Germany and worked on a research program over there for a while. The nice thing about working in research is you tend to get opportunities to travel and experience the world, and a wide range of people. I decided that research wasn't the right fit for me, as I wanted a more fast-paced career and enjoy working on a more traditional team, rather than independently.
For anyone interested in working directly in the field of Cognitive Psychology but not in clinical Psychology, research may be a good avenue, however any position above a research assistant typically requires a PhD, and jobs can be hard to come by. For Social and Political Psychology, consider the world of nonprofit businesses; there are nonprofits out there for every passion, or you could start your own!
I ended up going to grad school and got a Masters degree in Organizational Development and Leadership. I like to say it's the Psychology version of an MBA; it focuses primarily on change management and business. I found it just as fascinating as Psychology, and now I have a Business degree and still get to put my Psychology degree to use every day. I work in project management technology consulting now, and I love it! Many doors opened to me with my graduate degree.
Reflect on what it is about your character that makes you love Psychology; empathy, curiosity, concern for others, etc. These are marketable traits in many many fields!
While in college, I started volunteering in a Cognitive Psychology research lab on campus, and I really liked that. You can gain a much deeper understanding of the opportunities out there (and expand your network) by getting involved in research. After I graduated, I continued working in research as a project coordinator, and then moved to Germany and worked on a research program over there for a while. The nice thing about working in research is you tend to get opportunities to travel and experience the world, and a wide range of people. I decided that research wasn't the right fit for me, as I wanted a more fast-paced career and enjoy working on a more traditional team, rather than independently.
For anyone interested in working directly in the field of Cognitive Psychology but not in clinical Psychology, research may be a good avenue, however any position above a research assistant typically requires a PhD, and jobs can be hard to come by. For Social and Political Psychology, consider the world of nonprofit businesses; there are nonprofits out there for every passion, or you could start your own!
I ended up going to grad school and got a Masters degree in Organizational Development and Leadership. I like to say it's the Psychology version of an MBA; it focuses primarily on change management and business. I found it just as fascinating as Psychology, and now I have a Business degree and still get to put my Psychology degree to use every day. I work in project management technology consulting now, and I love it! Many doors opened to me with my graduate degree.
Reflect on what it is about your character that makes you love Psychology; empathy, curiosity, concern for others, etc. These are marketable traits in many many fields!
Trisha Shockley, CAPM
Management Consultant at PwC
4
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Trisha’s Answer
Hi Cherie!
I, too, studied psychology in college and loved learning about cognitive and social psychology. I encourage you to network with your professors to learn about available internships to explore the different areas of psychology, social work and counseling. Internships are a great way to get your feet wet and start narrowing down the specifics of what you like and dislike. For example, I worked as a paraprofessional counselor in a summer treatment program for adolescents with Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and ADHD. Our focus was behavior modification and teaching the students general resources to help improve their school/home life. It was an amazing opportunity to learn about behavioral and learning disorders and I learned a lot about myself and what I wanted to do from that internship.
Some additional graduate degrees to research are a master of social work or a master in counseling, as well. All great options. Check out the links below to learn more!
https://www.mastersincounseling.org/ms-vs-ma-in-counseling-whats-the-difference.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_of_Social_Work
I, too, studied psychology in college and loved learning about cognitive and social psychology. I encourage you to network with your professors to learn about available internships to explore the different areas of psychology, social work and counseling. Internships are a great way to get your feet wet and start narrowing down the specifics of what you like and dislike. For example, I worked as a paraprofessional counselor in a summer treatment program for adolescents with Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and ADHD. Our focus was behavior modification and teaching the students general resources to help improve their school/home life. It was an amazing opportunity to learn about behavioral and learning disorders and I learned a lot about myself and what I wanted to do from that internship.
Some additional graduate degrees to research are a master of social work or a master in counseling, as well. All great options. Check out the links below to learn more!
https://www.mastersincounseling.org/ms-vs-ma-in-counseling-whats-the-difference.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_of_Social_Work
Samantha Davis
Assurance Senior Associate at PwC
19
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Hi Cherie! Psychology has a lot of different focus areas outside of just clinical psychology. Most psychology fields require at least a master's degree, but some require a Ph.D. as well (especially if you'd be interested in performing research or being a professor). A lot of these fields are growing quickly as businesses and government organizations realize the important role psychology has in their operations. Based on the interests you mentioned, it sounds like applied social psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or human factors might be the most interesting to you. However, you should check out the websites listed below and decide what sounds the best for you! Good luck!
http://www.apa.org/action/careers/index.aspx
http://www.siop.org/studentdefault.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/organizational/index.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/human-factors/index.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/social/index.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/careers/index.aspx
http://www.siop.org/studentdefault.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/organizational/index.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/human-factors/index.aspx
http://www.apa.org/action/science/social/index.aspx
Gina Cabrera
EC
130
Answers
Hernando, Florida
Updated
Gina’s Answer
There are several graduate degrees in psychology that can be useful for careers in cognitive, social, and political psychology. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Master's in Psychology: A master's degree in psychology can provide you with a solid foundation in psychological theories and research methods. It can be a stepping stone to various careers in research, consulting, or applied settings. While a master's degree can be beneficial, it's important to note that some positions in these fields may require a doctoral degree for more advanced roles.
2. Ph.D. in Psychology: Pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology can offer in-depth training and research opportunities in your specific area of interest, such as cognitive, social, or political psychology. This degree is typically required for academic positions, research roles, and advanced positions in the field. It can also open doors to consulting, policy analysis, or think tank positions.
3. Psy.D. in Psychology: A Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree is an alternative to a Ph.D. that focuses more on clinical practice and applied psychology. While it may not be as research-oriented, it can still provide opportunities to specialize in areas like cognitive, social, or political psychology and work in applied settings.
4. Master's in Public Policy or Political Science: If you are specifically interested in the intersection of psychology and politics, pursuing a master's degree in public policy or political science can be valuable. These degrees can provide you with a deeper understanding of political systems, policy analysis, and the application of psychological principles in political contexts.
It's important to note that the availability of careers in these areas can vary depending on factors such as location, industry demand, and specific job market conditions. Networking, gaining relevant experience through internships or research projects, and staying up-to-date with industry trends can also enhance your career prospects.
Consider researching specific job roles or organizations that align with your interests to gain a better understanding of the educational requirements and career paths available in cognitive, social, and political psychology.
1. Master's in Psychology: A master's degree in psychology can provide you with a solid foundation in psychological theories and research methods. It can be a stepping stone to various careers in research, consulting, or applied settings. While a master's degree can be beneficial, it's important to note that some positions in these fields may require a doctoral degree for more advanced roles.
2. Ph.D. in Psychology: Pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology can offer in-depth training and research opportunities in your specific area of interest, such as cognitive, social, or political psychology. This degree is typically required for academic positions, research roles, and advanced positions in the field. It can also open doors to consulting, policy analysis, or think tank positions.
3. Psy.D. in Psychology: A Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree is an alternative to a Ph.D. that focuses more on clinical practice and applied psychology. While it may not be as research-oriented, it can still provide opportunities to specialize in areas like cognitive, social, or political psychology and work in applied settings.
4. Master's in Public Policy or Political Science: If you are specifically interested in the intersection of psychology and politics, pursuing a master's degree in public policy or political science can be valuable. These degrees can provide you with a deeper understanding of political systems, policy analysis, and the application of psychological principles in political contexts.
It's important to note that the availability of careers in these areas can vary depending on factors such as location, industry demand, and specific job market conditions. Networking, gaining relevant experience through internships or research projects, and staying up-to-date with industry trends can also enhance your career prospects.
Consider researching specific job roles or organizations that align with your interests to gain a better understanding of the educational requirements and career paths available in cognitive, social, and political psychology.