Psychology isn’t just a field of study—it’s a journey into understanding what makes us tick. If you’re curious about how the human mind works and dream of a career where you can help people thrive, a Bachelor's degree in Psychology might be your next big step. In this guide, we’ll cover what psychology is, what does a psychologist do, the pros and cons, the steps to get it, how long it takes, online options, what you'll study, and possible career paths with further degrees.

Key Points

• Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior, focusing on how people think, feel, and act individually and in groups.
• A psychologist is a professional who studies mental processes and behaviors, using scientific methods to address psychological issues and promote mental health.
• To become a licensed psychologist, you need to complete a bachelor's degree in Psychology, followed by a master's or doctoral degree, plus supervised practice and licensing.
• A bachelor's degree in Psychology typically takes about 4 years of full-time study.
• The average psychologist salary in the United States is $92,740 per year or about $44.59 per hour.

What is Psychology?

At its core, psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. Derived from the Greek words psyche (soul or life) and logos (study), this field explores how people think, feel, and act—whether on their own or in groups. Researchers and practitioners use evidence-based methods to unravel mental processes, which means every insight is backed by rigorous science.

What is a Psychologist? What Does a Psychologist Do?

A psychologist is more than just a counselor or researcher. They are professionals who study mental processes and behavior. In everyday language, think of them as mind detectives who use science to:

• Assess and diagnose mental health conditions and emotional disorders.
• Conduct therapy sessions to help individuals manage and overcome psychological difficulties.
• Perform psychological testing to evaluate cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning.
• Provide counseling to support personal development and mental well-being.
• Engage in research to advance knowledge of human behavior and improve mental health interventions.

What is a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology?

A bachelor's degree in Psychology is an undergraduate program that focuses on the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. Over about four years of full-time study, students will dive into various topics like cognitive, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, plus learn research methods and statistical analysis. By the end of the program, students will have acquired critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in a variety of professional settings.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Bachelor's in Psychology

Pros

• Versatility: Opens doors to many career paths—from mental health services to business roles.
• Skill Development: Enhances analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Graduate School Ready: Prepares you for advanced studies if you decide to specialize.
• Personal Growth: Deepens your understanding of yourself and others.

Cons

• Competitive Field: Many qualified applicants for a limited number of positions.
• Entry-Level Challenges: Some roles might not require a psychology degree.
• Further Education: Advanced career opportunities often need a master's or doctoral degree.
• Salary Considerations: Starting salaries for some entry-level jobs may be on the lower side.

Steps to Earn Your Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

Earning your degree is a well-structured process. Here’s how to navigate it:

1. Meet Admission Requirements:

Ensure you have a high school diploma or GED, a competitive GPA, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT). Some programs might also ask for recommendation letters or a personal statement.

2. Submit Your Application:

Fill out the application form for your chosen program, attach your academic transcripts, and include any additional materials like essays or interview feedback.

3. Explore Financial Aid:

Look into scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Reach out to the financial aid office for guidance on securing funding.

4. Enroll and Study:

Once accepted, complete the program over four years (or more if you’re part-time or taking internships). Expect to cover core psychology courses, electives, and general education classes. You can find psychology programs that fit your goals through Dreambound and start your journey today.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Psychology Options

If you're considering an online bachelor's degree in Psychology, there are several options available. One popular resource is Dreambound, which partners with accredited universities to offer accessible and affordable degrees. Some highlighted programs include:

Columbia Southern University

Program:

• BS Psychology Mental Health
• BS Psychology Diversity And Inclusion
• BS Psychology Industrial Organization

Cost Range: $50,500 - $75,000

Southern New Hampshire University

Program:

• BA Psychology Industrial Organizational Psychology
• BA Psychology
• BA Psychology With Concentration In Forensic Psychology
• BA Psychology With Concentration In Mental Health
• BA Psychology With Concentration In Addictions
• BA Psychology With Concentration In Child Adolescent Development

Cost Range: $50,500 - $95,000

Liberty University Online

Program:

• BS Psychology Christian Counseling
• BS Psychology Addictions Recovery
• BS Psychology
• BS Psychology Developmental Psychology
• BS Psychology Military Resilience
• BS Psychology Crisis Counseling
• BS Psychology Life Coaching

Cost Range: $50,000 - $150,000

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology?

Typically, a Bachelor's in Psychology takes about four years of full-time study. However, your timeline might vary based on factors like part-time enrollment, transfer credits, and internship or study abroad participation.

What Will You Study?

During your psychology degree, you’ll explore:

• Subfields: Clinical, social, developmental, and cognitive psychology
• Research Methods: Experimental design, data collection, and analysis
• Practical Applications: Case studies, internships, and group projects
• Skill Development: Critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving

How Much Does a Psychologist Make?

It's hard to give a single average salary for psychologists because there are many types of psychologists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2023, the average psychologist salary in the United States is $92,740 per year, or about $44.59 per hour. These numbers can vary depending on where you work, your experience, and the type of job you have. To give you a better idea, let’s look at the average annual salaries for clinical psychologists in different states.

• Alabama: $92,470
• Alaska: $109,300
• Arizona: $109,550
• Arkansas: $106,330
• California: $132,410
• Colorado: $99,690
• Connecticut: N/A
• Delaware: N/A
• District of Columbia: N/A
• Florida: $89,450
• Georgia: $85,800
• Guam: $92,780
• Hawaii: $75,330
• Idaho: $111,300
• Illinois: $92,700
• Indiana: $87,360
• Iowa: $72,570
• Kansas: $105,140
• Kentucky: N/A
• Louisiana: $117,710
• Maine: $116,560
• Maryland: $102,630
• Massachusetts: $82,770
• Michigan: $95,100
• Minnesota: N/A
• Mississippi: $87,730
• Missouri: $80,310
• Montana: $106,830
• Nebraska: $64,390
• Nevada: $148,370
• New Hampshire: $92,530
• New Jersey: $113,230
• New Mexico: $91,390
• New York: $88,500
• North Carolina: $108,690
• North Dakota: $89,380
• Ohio: $129,470
• Oklahoma: $80,400
• Oregon: $61,970
• Pennsylvania: $120,720
• Puerto Rico: $64,990
• Rhode Island: $86,160
• South Carolina: $109,670
• South Dakota: $82,420
• Tennessee: $110,630
• Texas: $95,950
• Utah: $108,130
• Vermont: $108,650
• Virgin Islands: $75,810
• Virginia: $109,890
• Washington: $72,860
• West Virginia: $1,780
• Wisconsin: $4,640
• Wyoming: $400

What Is the Job Outlook for Clinical Psychologist Jobs?

The job outlook for psychologists is also varied, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% increase in psychology jobs from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is faster than the average for most other professions. For a better understanding, here’s a breakdown of the estimated number of clinical psychologist jobs in each state across the U.S. Remember, these numbers might not include all job categories or self-employed workers, so they may not add up to the total.

• Alabama: 440
• Alaska: 120
• Arizona: 630
• Arkansas: 410
• California: 11,840
• Colorado: 1,230
• Connecticut: 670
• Delaware: 190
• District of Columbia: 280
• Florida: 2,680
• Georgia: 690
• Guam: 280
• Hawaii: 600
• Idaho: 4,930
• Illinois: 1,480
• Indiana: 540
• Iowa: 330
• Kansas: 700
• Kentucky: 490
• Louisiana: 210
• Maine: 2,460
• Maryland: 3,360
• Massachusetts: 2,520
• Michigan: 1,670
• Minnesota: 210
• Mississippi: 1,670
• Missouri: 320
• Montana: 360
• Nebraska: 290
• Nevada: 2,010
• New Hampshire: 280
• New Jersey: 7,290
• New Mexico: 2,260
• New York: 160
• North Carolina: 1,350
• North Dakota: 270
• Ohio: 490
• Oklahoma: 2,970
• Oregon: 250
• Pennsylvania: 400
• Puerto Rico: 700
• Rhode Island: 150
• South Carolina: 640
• South Dakota: 4,240
• Tennessee: 1,190
• Texas: 120
• Utah: 1,920
• Vermont: 1,010
• Virgin Islands: 680
• Virginia: 1,390
• Washington: 60
• West Virginia: 1,780
• Wisconsin: 4,640
• Wyoming: 400

What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?

A Bachelor's in Psychology can lead to diverse opportunities. Here’s how you can put your degree to work:

Graduate School Preparation

• Master’s Degree: Specialize in clinical, counseling, or research psychology.
• Doctoral Degree: For those aiming to lead in academic research or advanced clinical practice.
• Related Fields: Transition into social work, human resources, or education.

Entry-Level Roles

• Social Services: Case management or program coordination.
• Human Resources: Recruitment, training, and employee development.
• Marketing and Sales: Leverage psychological insights to understand consumer behavior.
• Customer Service: Use your communication skills to support and resolve client issues.

Diverse Career Opportunities

• Mental Health: Positions such as case managers or mental health technicians.
• Education: Roles like academic advisors or school counselors.
• Business: Opportunities in human resources or market research.
• Criminal Justice: Positions like probation officers or forensic investigators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do psychologists work?

Psychologists can be found in hospitals, private practices, academic institutions, corporate settings, and community organizations.

How to become a psychologist?

To become a psychologist, one must start with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, then pursue a Master’s or Doctoral degree, and complete the required supervised practice to become licensed.

How long does it take to become a psychologist?

Becoming a psychologist generally takes around 10-13 years. This includes completing a bachelor's degree in Psychology (4 years), followed by a master's degree (2 years) or a doctoral degree (4-7 years), and additional years of supervised practice and obtaining licensure.

Which is better, BA or BS psychology?

A BA typically has a broader liberal arts focus, while a BS emphasizes scientific and quantitative methods—choose based on your career goals.

What are the types of psychologists?

Psychologists specialize in various fields, each focusing on different aspects of mental health and behavior. Key types include:

• Clinical and Counseling Psychologists: These professionals diagnose and treat mental health issues, emotional problems, and psychological disorders through therapy and counseling.

• Industrial-Organizational Psychologists: They apply psychological principles to workplace environments, enhancing productivity, employee satisfaction, and organizational effectiveness.

• School Psychologists: These psychologists work within educational settings, addressing students’ academic, social, and emotional needs, and collaborating with educators and parents.

• Forensic Psychologists: They apply psychological principles to legal issues, often working on criminal cases, assessments, and providing expert testimony in court.

• Child Psychologists: Specializing in the mental health of children and adolescents, these psychologists address developmental, behavioral, and emotional issues specific to younger populations.

• Sports Psychologists: They work with athletes and teams to improve performance, manage stress, and enhance mental resilience in competitive environments.

Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: What's the difference?

The main difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist lies in their training and treatment approaches. Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree in psychology and focus on providing psychotherapy and behavioral interventions. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health, can prescribe medication, and often combine pharmacological treatments with psychotherapy.

Final Thoughts

A Bachelor's Degree in Psychology (BS in Psychology) can be a versatile and rewarding path, providing a solid foundation in the study of human behavior and cognition. Whether you plan to pursue further education or enter the workforce directly, this degree can open up a wide range of career opportunities and personal growth opportunities. By understanding the admission requirements, program structure, and potential career paths, you can make an informed decision about whether a BS in Psychology is the right fit for your educational and professional goals.

Take the first step toward your psychology career! Explore top psychology programs near you with Dreambound and start making an impact in psychology today.

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