Find out what it takes to earn a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. We'll cover what it 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?

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behavior, derived from the Greek words "psyche," meaning soul or life, and "logos," meaning knowledge or study. It explores how people think, feel, and act both individually and in groups. Psychologists investigate various aspects of mental processes and behaviors through research and apply this knowledge to solve problems, improve well-being, and enhance human functioning.

What is a Psychologist?

A psychologist is a professional who studies mental processes and behavior. They use scientific methods to understand how individuals think, feel, and act, and they apply this understanding to address psychological issues and promote mental health. Psychologists often work in clinical, counseling, research, or academic settings.

What Does a Psychologist Do?

Psychologists specialize in understanding and addressing mental health issues and emotional disorders. They use their expertise to provide therapy, conduct assessments, and engage in research to enhance mental health practices. Here’s what psychologists typically do:

• 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. This degree provides students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and practical applications. The curriculum typically covers a wide range of topics, including cognitive, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, as well as 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 Degree in Psychology

Pros

• Versatile degree that can lead to a wide range of career paths
• Opportunity to develop strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Preparation for graduate-level studies in Psychology or related fields
• Potential for personal growth and self-understanding

Cons

• Highly competitive field, with many applicants for limited job opportunities
• Some entry-level positions may not require a bachelor's degree in Psychology
• Potential need for further education (master's or doctoral degree) to advance in certain careers
• Relatively low starting salaries for some entry-level positions

How to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Psychology is a structured process that involves several key steps. This degree provides a solid foundation in understanding human behavior and mental processes. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Meet the admission requirements: Start by ensuring you meet the basic criteria for entry, including having a high school diploma or GED, maintaining a minimum GPA, and achieving satisfactory scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Some programs may also ask for letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or an interview.

2. Apply to the psychology program: Once you’ve met the admission requirements, submit an application to your chosen program. This typically involves completing an application form, providing your academic transcripts, and including any additional materials the program requires.

3. Explore financial aid options: Look into various ways to finance your education, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Reach out to the financial aid office at your selected institution to understand the available options and how to apply for them.

4. Enroll and complete the program: After being accepted, enroll in your courses and begin your studies. Expect to spend about four years completing the program, during which you will take core Psychology courses, electives, and fulfill general education requirements.

List of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

If you're considering an online bachelor's degree in Psychology, there are several options available. One website to consider is Dreambound, which offers a flexible and affordable Psychology degree program.

Dreambound is an online education platform that partners with accredited universities to provide high-quality, affordable degree programs. Their online bachelor's degree in Psychology is designed to be accessible and convenient for students who need a flexible learning option.

Some of the schools and programs offered through Dreambound 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?

A bachelor's degree in Psychology typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. This timeframe assumes that students are able to take a full course load each semester and make satisfactory progress towards their degree. However, the actual length of the program may vary depending on factors such as:

• Enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
• Transfer credits or prior learning experiences
• Availability of required courses
• Participation in internships, co-op programs, or study abroad opportunities

Some students may be able to complete their bachelor's degree in Psychology in less than four years, while others may take longer due to personal or academic circumstances.

What to Expect from a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

A bachelor's degree in Psychology is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the field of Psychology, including its theories, research methods, and practical applications. Throughout the program, students can expect to:

• Explore the various subfields of Psychology, such as clinical, social, developmental, and cognitive psychology
• Learn about research methods, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Gain practical experience through internships, fieldwork, or research opportunities
• Engage in hands-on learning activities, such as case studies, simulations, and group projects
• Participate in discussions, presentations, and written assignments to demonstrate their understanding of course material

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 Psychology Bachelor's Degree?

A bachelor's degree in Psychology can open up a wide range of career opportunities, both within the field of Psychology and in related industries. Here are some of the potential paths you can pursue with a Psychology degree:

Graduate School Preparation

Pursuing further education after a bachelor's degree in Psychology can significantly enhance career opportunities and specialization. Here's what you need to know:

• Pursue a master’s degree: This advanced degree provides deeper expertise and can lead to careers in clinical, counseling, or research psychology.
• Consider a doctoral degree: A PhD or PsyD opens doors to academic research, advanced clinical practice, and specialized fields within psychology.
• Explore related fields: With additional training, you can apply your psychology background to careers in social work, human resources, or education.
• Prepare for additional certifications: Some careers may require extra certifications or training, depending on your chosen path and area of specialization

Entry-Level Psychology Roles

A bachelor's degree in Psychology can open doors to various entry-level positions across different fields. Here’s a look at some potential roles:

• Social Services: Work in roles that support individuals and families, such as case management or program coordination.
• Human Resources: Apply psychological principles to recruit, train, and manage employees, or handle organizational development.
• Marketing: Use your understanding of human behavior to help design and analyze marketing strategies and campaigns.
• Sales: Leverage psychological insights to enhance sales techniques and improve customer interactions.
• Customer Service: Utilize communication skills and problem-solving abilities to provide support and resolve issues for clients and customers.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in Psychology have a broad range of career options across various fields. Here’s a snapshot of potential career paths:

• Mental Health: Work in roles such as case manager or mental health technician, supporting individuals with psychological needs.
• Social Work: Engage in positions like social worker or community outreach coordinator, helping people navigate social services and support systems.
• Education: Apply your knowledge as an academic advisor, school counselor, or educational coordinator.
• Business: Explore opportunities in human resources, organizational development, or market research to enhance workplace dynamics and business strategies.
• Criminal Justice: Consider roles such as probation officer or forensic investigator, where psychological insights can aid in understanding and managing criminal behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do psychologists work?

Psychologists work in a variety of settings depending on their specialization. Common workplaces include private practices, hospitals, and clinics where they provide therapy and counseling. Many also work in academic and research institutions, contributing to psychological research and teaching. Additionally, psychologists are employed in corporate environments, educational institutions, and community organizations, focusing on areas like employee well-being, student support, and program development.

How to become a psychologist?

To become a psychologist, you typically need to complete a bachelor's degree in Psychology, followed by a master's or doctoral degree in the field. The path involves obtaining relevant certifications and gaining experience through internships or supervised practice. Starting with a bachelor's degree provides a foundational understanding of psychological principles, preparing you for advanced studies and professional training.

How long does it take to become a psychologist?

Becoming a psychologist generally requires several steps. With a certificate or associate degree, you can start working in related fields, but to become a licensed psychologist, you'll need a bachelor's degree (4 years), followed by a master's (2 years) or doctoral degree (4-7 years), totaling approximately 10-13 years. The exact duration varies depending on the program and personal pace.

What is a clinical psychologist?

A clinical psychologist specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, emotional problems, and behavioral issues. They provide therapy and counseling, often working in settings such as hospitals, private practices, or mental health clinics. Clinical psychologists use evidence-based techniques to help individuals manage and overcome psychological difficulties.

What can you do with a psychology degree?

A psychology degree offers diverse career opportunities. Graduates can pursue roles as clinical psychologists, counselors, or therapists, working in healthcare settings to support mental health. They may also find roles in research, academia, or human resources, applying psychological principles to study behavior or enhance organizational effectiveness. Additionally, psychology graduates often work in social services, marketing, and education, leveraging their understanding of human behavior in various professional contexts.

How many years 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?

Choosing between a BA and a BS in Psychology depends on your career aspirations. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology generally includes more courses in the humanities and social sciences, offering a well-rounded education. This can be advantageous if you plan to enter fields that require strong communication skills or a broader understanding of human behavior. A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology, however, is more focused on scientific and mathematical approaches, which is ideal if you're interested in research, clinical practice, or roles that require strong analytical skills. Both degrees are valuable; your choice should reflect your career path and personal interests.

What bachelor's degree is best for psychology?

The best bachelor's degree for psychology depends on your career goals and interests. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology typically offers a broad liberal arts education, which is beneficial if you're interested in integrating psychology with other fields like social sciences or humanities. A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology, on the other hand, often emphasizes scientific and quantitative skills, making it a better choice if you plan to pursue research or a more technical career in psychology. Both degrees provide a solid foundation in psychology, but your choice should align with your specific career objectives.

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.

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