Tips on how to become a psychologist

Psychology is a helping field that offers numerous career options.

People who earn psychology degrees work in a wide range of workplaces—from clinics and private practices, to schools, social-service nonprofits, and government agencies. Some professionals with backgrounds in psychology conduct research; others are employed by the criminal justice system; and still others work for companies, conducting market research, screening job candidates, or coaching business executives to enhance their effectiveness.

The path to becoming a professional psychologist begins with education. The rigorous education that is required ensures that psychologists are prepared to interact with a wide range of populations and tackle an array of behavioral challenges.

What can you do with a degree in psychology? It depends in part on the level of your education.

Required educational background

A bachelor’s degree in psychology can prepare you for many kinds of careers, including positions in education, consulting, social services, and health systems. People who chose undergraduate degrees in psychology usually have a deep interest in human behavior and motivations—and this interest can be applied in a variety of job settings.

A master’s degree can give you the background to help you build a career as a clinical manager, social services coordinator, or mental health professional.  In many cases, a master’s degree may be required to enroll in a doctoral program in psychology. (Some doctoral programs require a master’s degree as a prerequisite, while other programs include master’s level education as part of their overall doctoral curriculum.)

Becoming a practicing Psychologist

If you are interested in becoming a practicing psychologist, you may want to consider an advanced degree such as a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology. The type of doctoral degree you choose will depend largely on your career goals.

What is the difference? A PsyD is a professional degree and focuses more on practice and clinical work. It is intended to prepare you for a career as a practicing psychologist in a clinical setting—such as private practice, the court system, or a K-12 school. A PhD places more emphasis on experimental methods and research. Individuals with PhDs may analyze data, conduct academic research, and teach at a university level. In some cases, they also work directly with patients in clinical settings.

Individuals with either a PsyD or PhD may have the option to work in a clinical setting, assuming they obtain licensure and other necessary prerequisites. *

Interested in learning more about the kind of education you need to become a psychologist? Learn more about Capella’s bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree offerings in psychology.

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.