B.A. in Psychology + Associates in Business Management
Hi! Currently, I am obtaining an Associates's degree in Business Management from my community college before transferring into a university for a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. I see that in the United States, people are especially discouraging of Psychology undergraduates in a business field. A lot of people would say to switch for a Bachelors in Business instead and get an Associates's in Psychology, which I do not plan on doing because I love my current placements. I have heard and read from many people that Psychology majors are deemed useful only within clinical and social works. If I were to take the path in those aspects, I am mainly interested in becoming a college academic advisor/counselor. However, I have put it in my best interest and am very determined to find myself a career in the business field after I graduate.
I want to ask what is the REALITY of someone with a BA in Psychology and Associates in Business Management to be offered great positions in the business fields. What are some jobs and careers can I be qualified for with these degrees? What is something you would recommend me to do in order to gain experience or expose me to the works of psychology and business as an undergrad? Please give me any additional advice or information you think would be helpful too!
I really appreciate and thank you for your responses! :-)
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8 answers
Michelle’s Answer
Don't be discouraged by anyone who says you can't have a business career with a psychology major. There are plenty of us with "non-traditional" education (I was a literature major before getting my MBA.) The most important thing is doing well in your chosen major and having a good story that explains your passions in life and why you chose this education/career combination for yourself.
Nayra’s Answer
Best of luck!
Kylee’s Answer
Toni’s Answer
Simeon’s Answer
Betty’s Answer
You're correct in observing that not many people would immediately understand the majors you've chosen: BA psychology and AA in business. For the most part, psychology is not a well understood area of study or discipline in the corporate world and I could see how well it could fit with marketing, customer sentiments and insights. It's also been interesting as I've advanced in my career how big of a role psychology has played in my professional interaction with executives and co-workers. I would say that it's used more often than not in business, and although some hiring managers would not hire a person with a psychology degree because they don't understand it well enough, there are people who would. To make your resume stronger, I would recommend that you do a dual major and get a BA in business too so that you have a broader reach since the job market is so competitive. Hope this helps!
Shirley’s Answer
I was drawn to your question as I graduated college with a degree in both Psychology and Accounting. During interviews, it was always brought up as a question, "Why those 2, how do they relate?!" For me personally, I feel that there is significant overlap. I started out my career as a public accountant performing audits and found my background assisted with tough conversations and working with different stakeholders. I eventually transitioned to HR where I rely heavily on my former education. As an HR professional, you are a resource to humans - knowing how to be empathetic, strong communication skills, and being able to lead groups with varying backgrounds are just a few skills where my degree helped me immensely.
I would look into a dual major (Psychology & Business area) if possible and be open to the opportunities that present themselves to you. An internship might open up that is more related to Psychology then business, but don't discount it because of that! Internships, volunteer opportunities, and part-time jobs offer you the chance to learn many other skills.
Do not be discouraged when you hear individuals say that a business career with a major in psychology is not wise. I pursued this path and am very happy with the decisions I've made in my career - and I can guarantee that I am not alone. As long as you are able to speak to your passions, why you are interested in a certain field, and why you ended up choosing this combination of education/career, you will do great!