psychology jobs without phd

Psychology majors can earn $100K and up in these roles that don’t require a Ph.D.

As you drive to work or to the grocery store, your decisions are influenced by someone with a background in psychology . Applied psychology is behind the auto manufacturer’s design of the dashboard so that you, the driver, can operate the vehicle safely and minimize distraction. And automotive design isn’t the only product or process influenced by psychology; every job and career path has an element of psychology. 

“We often describe psychology as a hub science, and what that means is there are interconnections with other fields,” says Karen Stamm, director of the Center for Workforce Studies at the American Psychological Association . 

Just as the applications for psychology are wide-ranging, so too are salaries. Among U.S. students who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, about 17% of these grads earned at least $90,000 in 2019, according to the American Psychological Association. People with advanced degrees can earn even more. For example, students in the online master’s degree program in the 2020–21 class at Pepperdine University reported postgrad salaries of up to $200,000 . 

While salaries differ based on geographic location, level of expertise, and certifications, there are various ways that psychology majors can land a six-figure salary . Increasingly, psychology grads can nab these high-paying jobs without pursuing a Ph.D. or an advanced degree. Here’s how.

Pair a psychology degree with another field to earn more

Psychology-related jobs that pay a salary of at least $100,000 are typically in business. Some of those positions include…

• Human factors engineers, who create and design tools, machines, and systems
• Business process consultants, who format workflows
• Change management directors, who implement changes within institutional structures
• Human resources directors, who plan employee policies and programs for organizations

Most of the above roles require knowledge in another field. For example, human factors engineers require a background in engineering, as well as a strong understanding of human psychology. The average human factors engineer salary in the U.S. is about $113,000, according to ZipRecruiter . 

Another high-paying role that draws on a psychology background is a user experience (UX) researcher, whose role is to translate research and turn it into design and product recommendations for websites and apps. People in this role develop research plans, communicate the value of the research, and deliver insights for added business value, and the median salary for a UX researcher is also $113,000, according to ZipRecruiter . 

It’s hard to find people who can understand and manipulate statistics, unearth the significance of data, communicate its meaning effectively to other team members or stakeholders, and then find actionable insights, Stamm notes. Statistics courses are required for most psychology programs .

“The combination of people who understand the [computer] programming side and the methods of scientific inquiry that are grounded in a field like psychology is a really valuable, and rare, common combination,” Stamm adds.

Choosing a degree to go along with psychology is not a one-size-fits-all decision. And the best degree to pursue along with psychology depends on individual preference, according to Sue Harbour, associate dean and executive director of the Career Center at the University of California, Berkeley. If psychology graduates articulate what they learned from their degree and pair their psychology education with exposure to other fields, they are eligible for a variety of roles that may seem to be outside the realm of psychology—which include coding, UX design, and UX research, Harbour notes. 

Surge in mental health roles is driving salary gains

There’s greater awareness of the value of psychology as a practice, according to Stamm, as well as the role of mental health, well-being, and wellness in schools, businesses, and organizations alike. In turn, that’s creating more roles for psychology graduates—and netting them higher salaries.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions on people’s mental health, compounded with the current candidate-led job market, companies have placed greater emphasis on providing mental health benefits for employees. “There are about 2.7 times more job postings offering mental health benefits in 2021 compared to 2019,” says Sinem Buber, lead economist at ZipRecruiter. “Companies are going the extra mile to make the job more attractive in the middle of labor shortages.”

Startups, such as Teladoc and Minded , and national pharmacy chains, including CVS and Walgreens, are increasingly offering mental health counseling and even psychiatry to make mental health services available for a wider range of people. These trends are driving a surge in mental health jobs and salaries, according to Buber.

Grads who understand human behavior will be ‘very well positioned’ for the future

To position yourself for a career path that will lead to a salary of $100,000 or more, begin by looking for roles in business that require psychology skills. Roles in mental health are another viable route. Articulating your understanding of psychology and statistics will make you a strong fit for the role, according to Stamm. 

“People who have an understanding of behavior and the scientific method—and interpersonal relationships that are strongly foundational in psychology—will be very well positioned for the future,” Stamm adds.

See how the schools you’re considering fared in Fortune’s rankings of the best master’s degree programs in data science ( in-person and online ), nursing , computer science , cybersecurity , psychology , public health , and business analytics , as well as doctorate in education programs and MBA programs ( part-time , executive , full-time , and online ).

Harvard Business Analytics Program

Mba rankings.

• Best Online MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs for 2024
• Best MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Executive MBA Programs for 2024
• Best Part-Time MBA Programs for 2024
• 25 Most Affordable Online MBAs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Business Analytics Programs for 2024

Information technology & data rankings

• Best Online Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Master’s in Data Science for 2024
• Best Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Computer Science Degrees for 2024
• Best Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Master’s in Data Science Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Master’s in Cybersecurity Degrees for 2024

Health rankings

• Best Online MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2024
• Accredited Online Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Public Health (MPH) Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2024
• Best Online Master’s in Psychology Programs for 2024

Leadership rankings

• Best Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs for 2024
• Most Affordable Online Doctorate in Education (EdD) Programs for 2024
• Coding Bootcamps in New York for 2024
• Best Data Science and Analytics Bootcamps for 2024
• Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps for 2024
• Best UX/UI bootcamps for 2024

Boarding schools

• World’s Leading Boarding Schools for 2024
• Top Boarding School Advisors for 2024

MA in Psychology from Pepperdine

5 Alternative Careers For Psychology Majors that Aren’t Counseling

Industry Advice Healthcare

Earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology opens up many in-demand professional possibilities, and pursuing a master’s degree further expands the diverse array of careers that extend beyond the traditional scope of psychology.

In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics (BLS) psychology-related careers are projected to increase by six percent from 2022 to 2032—which is three percent higher than the national average. This rise in psychology career opportunities aren’t just in counseling or conventional career paths though, they also include numerous alternative paths that you may not be aware of yet.

If you’re interested in leveraging your psychology education in alternative career paths, here’s an overview of why a psychology degree is versatile and how applied psychology can pave the way to alternative careers for psychology majors.

Is a Psychology Degree Versatile?

Despite the misconception that a psychology degree offers a narrow career path post-graduation, it can actually unlock numerous professional doors. This is largely because of the breadth of skills an education focused on human behavior can develop.

“All of these skills are going to bring a different focus on psychology, which is going to be less about counseling and a little bit more about research methods,” says Christie Rizzo, Associate Professor of Applied Psychology at Northeastern’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences.

Some of these interdisciplinary skills include:

• Research skills
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Data analysis

While many psychology graduates use these skills and competencies in the most common career paths, such as counseling and academic jobs, there are other options if you aren’t interested in working with clients.

“We’re definitely seeing organizations—like nonprofit research centers—looking for professionals knowledgeable in applied psychology,” Rizzo says. “This is because they need support in applying for grants to do research projects from people with applied psychology training.”

Applied psychology is the practical application of psychological principles and theories from other types of psychology—like clinical, counseling, and health psychology—to address real-world challenges. Through a curriculum that has a more holistic view of psychology research methods, applied psychology can prepare you for a career in almost any industry.

5 Alternative Career Paths for Psychology Majors

Most psychology degree holders have a strong background in research, which is very valuable to most employers in today’s digital world.

“We’re constantly presented with studies and research,” Rizzo says. “And then we’re expected to accept the information that’s given to us. But students that come out of an applied psychology program are really able to do a deeper dive and evaluate information at a more sophisticated level.”

This doesn’t just lead to research-related jobs though. Here are five alternative careers you can pursue with a psychology degree that you may not know of.

1. Marketing Manager

Average Annual Salary: $138,730 Projected Job Growth: 6 percent

Marketing managers are professionals responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing marketing strategies that promote an organization’s products or services. While these positions often have an educational background in marketing or communications, recent trends in market research have opened the door to psychology degree holders.

For example, neuromarketing, the application of neuroscience and psychological principles to understand and influence consumer behavior, enables marketing managers to apply research on brain activity and consumer behavior to improve marketing strategies.

These insights, beyond traditional survey methods, allows marketing managers to fine-tune their marketing strategies to align more closely with consumer preferences, emotions, and motivations. As a result, more companies are looking for marketers who can interpret this psychological data to better inform future marketing campaigns.

2. Career Advisor

Average Annual Salary: $60,140 Projected Job Growth: 6 percent

A career advisor is an expert who offers guidance on educational and professional choices, helping individuals navigate their career paths through personalized advice, skill assessments, and job search strategies.

Most career advisors don’t share the same educational background, but considering the role psychology can plan in career counseling, it isn’t surprising that many employers want professionals with a psychology degree.

For example, many career advisors use personality assessments like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). These tests can help advisors identify an individual’s interests, strengths, and weaknesses that can offer valuable insights into potential career paths.

Career advisors don’t just help identify possible career paths, they can also leverage stress management and resilience-building strategies from psychology to guide clients through the challenges of the job market.

3. Child Development Specialist

Average Annual Salary: $51,399

Child development specialists are professionals who specialize in understanding and facilitating the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth of children. They utilize knowledge from developmental psychology to support the well-being of children who need support.

One of the most common career paths for psychology professionals who want to work with children is school psychology . However, child development specialists take a different approach in their support of children, considering a much wider lens of psychology compared to school psychologists .

For example, child development specialists specialize in understanding and promoting holistic child development, creating individualized plans for children outside of their educational experience.

This means they can work in a variety of settings in addition to schools, including:

• Daycare centers
• Children’s hospitals
• Community service organizations

Therefore, this career path is an excellent option for those interested in supporting children both in and outside of the classroom.

4. Health Education Specialist

Average Annual Salary: $59,990 Projected Job Growth: 7 percent

A health education specialist is an expert who designs, implements, and evaluates health education programs by utilizing knowledge of public health and behavioral science to promote wellness. This is mostly done through applied psychology application.

“Health education organizations that focus on creating prevention programs in communities, schools, etc. are definitely looking for employees who have this kind of training,” Rizzo says.

Through the application of psychological theories, they use their understanding of decision-making to promote behavior changes that can lead to healthier lifestyle choices. In addition, the application of social cognitive theories helps specialists analyze and address the social and environmental factors influencing health behaviors within communities.

5. Human Resources Specialist

Average Annual Salary: $64,240 Projected Job Growth: 6 percent

Human resources specialists are professionals responsible for managing various aspects of an organization’s employment competencies, including recruitment, training, benefits administration, and conflict resolution. They ensure workplaces function properly by leveraging organizations’ human resources policies and practices.

Most HR professionals have an educational background in either human resources or organizational leadership, but many human resources specialists leverage psychology in their everyday work.

For example, most HR specialists are involved in an organization’s hiring process. The interview process and talent assessment is largely informed by the principles of industrial-organizational psychology. This means HR specialists don’t just focus on a candidate’s skills and qualifications, but their behavioral tendencies, problem-solving approaches, and interpersonal skills as well.

How to Choose the Right Career Path For You

There are several ways you can determine which alternative psychology career path is right for you, but perhaps the most important factors to consider are your goals, desired salary, and educational background.

When it comes to your career goals, it’s important to think about where you want to work. For example, professionals interested in working with children are often confined to career paths related to schools and community organizations. Psychology graduates who want to work in research can gain employment in settings like nonprofit organizations or government agencies.

Earning potential can also influence which path is right for you. According to BLS , psychologists earn a median annual salary of $85,330. If you hope to earn more, a career in marketing or public policy can offer a much higher average annual salary.

However, all of this isn’t possible without the right educational background. While a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be an effective stepping stone to these career paths, earning a master’s degree in applied psychology can make a big difference.

“For most of these careers, we see undergraduate psychology majors go up against applicants with a master’s,” Rizzo says. “And the skills developed in a master’s degree in applied psychology are so applicable to those fields that I think it would make that master’s-level professional more desirable.”

These degree programs offer numerous benefits that can provide additional clarity in your career search. For example, career advising from psychology professionals in the field can give you the insight needed to make the right choice for you.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

Earning a degree in psychology doesn’t have to put you in a predefined box. While there are several fulfilling careers in counseling psychology , a background in human behavior can help you become a desirable candidate in various industries.

Earning a master’s degree in applied psychology can ensure your psychology background can be leveraged in these alternative career paths. Programs like Northeastern’s MS in Applied Psychology prepare students for the right career path in as little as one year. Through exposure to real-world psychology applications, and psychology professionals from these industries, you’ll be able to determine the right alternative career path for you.

“You’ll be able to talk to people in the careers that you’re potentially interested in,” Rizzo says. “This can be helpful because sometimes the career you thought you wanted is not what you think it is.”

Subscribe below to receive future content from the Graduate Programs Blog.

About kate gibson, related articles, 4 pressing global health problems we face today, global health careers: how can i make a difference.

Compliance Specialists: Who They Are and What They Earn

Did you know.

Advanced degree holders earn a salary an average 25% higher than bachelor's degree holders. (Economic Policy Institute, 2021)

Northeastern University Graduate Programs

Explore our 200+ industry-aligned graduate degree and certificate programs.

Most Popular:

Tips for taking online classes: 8 strategies for success, public health careers: what can you do with an mph, 7 international business careers that are in high demand, edd vs. phd in education: what’s the difference, 7 must-have skills for data analysts, in-demand biotechnology careers shaping our future, the benefits of online learning: 8 advantages of online degrees, how to write a statement of purpose for graduate school, the best of our graduate blog—right to your inbox.

Stay up to date on our latest posts and university events. Plus receive relevant career tips and grad school advice.

By providing us with your email, you agree to the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Keep Reading:

5 Homeland Security Careers for the Future

The Top 3 Job Requirements For a Homeland Security Career

What Are Security Studies?

Should I Go To Grad School: 4 Questions to Consider

Alternative Careers for Psychology Majors

Earning a psychology degree doesn’t mean that you must work in a psych-based job–in fact, a psychology degree is useful in a wide variety of fields. The skills acquired during psychology studies are desirable across a variety of industries, from clinical roles to education and even law enforcement. Psych students may also choose to continue their education further, rather than entering the workforce straight away.

Why Psychology Majors are Desirable in Other Fields

According to research from the Association of American Colleges & Universities (AASU), 91% of employers agree that a candidate’s ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve problems is more important for success than their undergraduate major is.

It’s not unusual for psych majors to work across a variety of industries–in fact, it’s the norm. It may surprise you to learn that only 27% of students go on to work in psychology or a field “closely related” to their major, according to the APA Center for Workforce Studies . The survey also found that 35% said their job was “somewhat related” to their major, while the 38% stated their job was not at all related to it.

What Does a Psychology Major Learn?

A wide variety of transferable skills can be gained while earning a psychology degree, including:

• Communication and empathy: Any psych major needs to be an excellent communicator and have empathy towards others. These qualities can prove beneficial in almost any career. According to AACU research , 96% of employers agree that college students should learn how to solve problems with people whose views are different from their own.
• Critical thinking: Thinking critically can make psych students better problem solvers and more considerate workers. A 2018 study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) discovered that surveyed employers unanimously deemed critical thinking and problem-solving to be essential skills–but only just more than half considered recent graduates to be proficient in these areas.
• Ethics: Psychologists are held to a strong code of ethics and conduct by the American Psychological Association (APA), which can be applied across other fields to ensure high standards.
• Understanding of diversity : Having learned the importance of diversity during their studies, psych majors may be better prepared to respect, value, and understand individuals’ differences. This is a rare quality to have, with only 21% of employers saying that recent graduates are highly-skilled in this area.
• Understanding of trauma: Psych students have a deeper understanding of the impact trauma can have, making them well-equipped to navigate difficult situations carefully.

Why Should I Get a Psychology Degree if I Don’t Want to be a Psychologist?

Perhaps psychology doesn’t interest you as a career choice, but you’re intrigued by the subject and want to learn more. This is fine–the major you choose at college doesn’t have to directly relate to your future career.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor , the average twenty-something switches jobs once every three years, with two or three career field changes over their lifetime. Studying a subject that interests and excites you may increase engagement, which can lead to better grades and a higher chance of success.

Jobs with Psychology Degree

The following are just a few of the career choices in various industries available to people with a psychology degree.

Jobs in Education for Psychology Majors

These jobs may require an alternative teacher certification , which will usually get you into the classroom quickly and focuses more on practical knowledge than educational theory.

Daycare worker: These positions may range from being an assistant, right to running entire facilities as a director. Each day you’ll inspire and support children’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being–all tasks which could benefit from a background in psychology.

• Predicted job growth from 2018-2018: between 2% (general daycare workers) and 7% (directors)
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median salaries range from $23,240 (childcare workers) to $47,940 (directors)

K-12 teacher: A successful teacher must do more than teach lesson plans. They also guide and mentor young children, which requires empathy, an understanding of diversity, and many other skills while earning a psychology degree. You may teach at a variety of grade levels, subjects, and settings–from kindergarten right through to high school, where you could specialize in being a psychology teacher .

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2018: between 3% (kindergarten, elementary and middle school teachers) and 4% (high school teachers)
• According to the BLS, median salaries range from $57,980 (kindergarten and elementary teachers) to $58,600 (middle school teachers) and $60,320 (high school teachers)

School counselor: Becoming a school counselor requires dedication, an advanced degree, completion of licensure requirements, and continuing education. However, the satisfaction may be worth the extra effort as you help students conquer issues related to academic performance, social anxieties, problems at home, and questions about the future. Having a background in psychology can provide counselors with a better understanding of their students and how they can assist them.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 8%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for school and career counselors is $56,310

Business Jobs and Psychology

Advertising and marketing: Psychology and advertising are closely related, as they require skills such as negotiation, mediation, and understanding what motivates people–to promote products and services. Advertisers and marketers should also keep ethical practices in mind to ensure they conduct their business in a fair and honorable way.

• According to the BLS, the median salary for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers is $132,620

Human resources: Human resources teams plan, direct, and coordinate the administrative functions in organizations to ensure employees are treated fairly. They work across almost all industries and employ a variety of psych-based skills in their day-to-day work, including mediation, an understanding of diversity, and empathy.

• Predicted job growth from 2018-2028: 7%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for human resources managers is $113,300

User-experience designer: At its core, being a UX designer is about understanding people and creating products that provide meaningful and relevant online experiences to them. So, a background in psychology, with skills such as empathy and an understanding of motivation, can be ideal.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 13%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for user experience designers is $69,430

Criminal Justice Careers for Psych Majors

Probation officer: Probation officers assist in the rehabilitation of law offenders on probation or parole. This includes ensuring offenders follow the conditions of their release and providing the support they need to reintegrate into society. Skills such as empathy, diversity awareness, and communication can be put to good use in this role.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 3%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for probation officers is $53,020

Detective: Like other law enforcement workers, detectives are tasked with pursuing and apprehending criminals–but unlike regular police officers, a detective typically specializes in a specific type of crime. They may be responsible for investigating serious offenses, such as sex crimes or homicides. Due to the extremely sensitive nature of their work, a background in psychology and can significantly benefit those looking to pursue a career as a detective.

• The predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 5%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for police officers and detectives is $63,380

Lawyer: While law and psychology may seem like very different disciplines, the American Psychological Association notes that the two share an interest in people’s actions. Lawyers may deal with the effects of criminal activity, and understanding human behavior can be very beneficial, as may other related skills, such as mediation.

• The predicted job growth from 2018-2028: 6%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for lawyers is $120,910

Psychology Degrees and Medical Careers

Doctors: Doctors diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses in a variety of ways. A psychology degree can be an excellent start to becoming a doctor, as it gives you training in empathy, research, and a sound understanding of the link between mental and physical health.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 7%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for doctors and surgeons is equal to or greater than $208,000

Nurses: Nurses also help their patients by treating injuries or illnesses. They can work in a variety of roles–from registered nurses, who must complete state licensure, to specialized positions such as midwives and psychiatric nurses. All nurses work closely with their patients, putting learned skills such as empathy, research, and an understanding of mental health conditions to good use.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 12%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for registered nurses is $71,730

Physician’s assistant: Physician’s assistants (PAs) diagnose illnesses, develop, and manage treatment plans, and may serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider. It takes thousands of hours of training to become a PA, and having skills such as empathy, research, and communication with people in crisis can make the process much smoother.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 31%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for PAs is $108,610

Nonprofit or Government Positions with Psychology Degrees

Social worker: While directly related to psychology degrees, social work is not technically a psychology-based job. Social workers help people to solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers may also diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools and other educational establishments. Earning a psychology degree can be beneficial when aiming for a career in social work.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 11%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for social workers is $49,470

Career counselor: Career counselors assist students, people re-entering the workforce after unemployment, and those just looking to change their role, find a better career fit. They are also often employed by government and nonprofit agencies to assist people with specific needs, such as developmental delays. Having psych-based skills such as patience, empathy, and an understanding of diversity can be beneficial to the role.

• According to the BLS, the median salary for career counselors is $56,310

Policy analyst: Policy analysts (a broad term that includes roles such as political scientists and researchers) research and raise public awareness of social issues such as crime prevention, access to healthcare, and environmental protection. Skills learned during a psych degree can be greatly beneficial in this role, including the ability to research, write, and argue effectively.

• Predicted job growth from 2018-2028: 5%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for political scientists is $117,570

Research and Writing Jobs for Psychology Majors

Market research analyst: Market research analysts collect and study data to gauge why target audiences might be attracted to particular products. An understanding of human emotion and the effect it has on people’s habits and purchasing decisions can be of great assistance in this role.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 20%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for market analysts is $63,120

University researcher: This career path covers several different jobs, including social science research assistants, analysts, and coordinators. They all use an array of research techniques to gather data, and then analyze it to make behavioral observations. A greater understanding of the human psyche can be very beneficial to this career.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 7%-10%
• According to O*net, the median salary for research assistants is $46,640

Writer: Whether you are interested in becoming a fiction writer or an academic, having a background in psychology could be an excellent start for a future writing career. A variety of skills, including research, verbal and written communication, and an understanding of the human mind can be valuable.

• Predicted job growth for 2018-2028: 0% (little or no change)
• According to the BLS, the median salary for writers is $62,170

Unexpected Career Options for Psychology Majors

Actor: A degree in psychology is the perfect starting point for an acting career–a wide range of skills can be transferred between the two, including memory, social theorizing, imagination, and empathy. Many famous actors, including Natalie Portman and Jon Stewart, have earned psych degrees.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 1%
• According to the BLS, the median hourly pay for actors is $17.54

Real estate agent: From managing the emotions of clients to considering the sensory perceptions of a new home, having a background in psychology can be very beneficial to real estate agents, whose job involves the sale of property. Skills such as empathy and good communication will be of particular use.

• According to the BLS, the median salary for real estate agents is $50,300

Artificial intelligence: Having a greater understanding of human psychology is very useful to the study of artificial intelligence (AI). In their 2018 book “The Future Computed,” Microsoft president Brad Smith and EVP of AI and research Harry Shum wrote that lessons from liberal arts degrees would be critical to unleashing the potential of this technology.

• Predicted job growth between 2018-2028: 16%
• According to the BLS, the median salary for computer research scientists is $118,370

There’s a vast array of careers available to those who hold a psychology degree. The cognitive, academic, and interpersonal skills learned while studying psychology can not only prepare you for further education, but also lead to a career that you love, whatever your interests may be.

• {{ program.Name }}

Looking for a Psychology Career Outside of Mental Health? 6 Roles That Don’t Require Working With Patients

While many would assume that becoming a psychologist is the sole career outcome for those studying psychology, there are many unconventional career possibilities outside of working with — and treating — mental health patients.

A psychology degree can open the door to careers in business, marketing, human resources, research, law and more. By pursuing a role outside of mental health treatment, psychology professionals can merge their backgrounds with business interests, allowing them to succeed in a wide variety of industries.

To learn more about the non-clinical jobs available to those in the psychology field, we spoke with Jorge Barraza , professor and director of the Master of Science in Applied Psychology (MAPP) online program at USC.

What Is Applied Psychology?

Psychology is a vast field with a variety of subsets, including applied psychology.

Simply put, those working in applied psychology use standard psychological methods or insights from past studies to tackle real-world issues. That can mean solving problems in organizations throughout law, education, media, government and more, all with standard tools from psychology.

“So many of the folks that go into psychology end up getting careers that don’t look like what you think about when you think about psychologists. There are just so many opportunities for psychologists to have careers outside of the mental health space,” said Barraza.

Professionals with a background in applied psychology can pursue careers with a focus in consumer research, marketing, jury trial selection, organizational design, human resources, user experience, business and more.

Those who thrive in applied psychology are “intellectually curious,” Barraza said.

“You should be comfortable using science or data to solve problems. A lot of applied psychology careers require folks to analyze data or information and have some general understanding of how to make it actionable or to tell a story from it,” he explained.

Of course, it’s also key to be truly passionate about psychology and have a firm grasp on the study and its history.

“You need to know the ABCs of psychology — ABCs being affect, behavior, cognition, or thinking, feeling, behaving. It’s also important to know how to communicate with people, how to understand what their problems are and what strategies can be taken to alleviate them. You have to understand the attitudes that people hold and why people behave the way they do in order to influence those attitudes and behaviors,” Barraza said.

How Do You Get Into Applied Psychology?

Almost all careers in applied psychology will require a bachelor’s degree, although it doesn’t necessarily need to be in psychology. While a master’s degree is often not compulsory, it can set you apart from others in the field and give you the best tools possible to tackle your career.

The MAPP online program at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences , for example, teaches students both business fundamentals and psychological tools, in addition to an emphasis on leadership, ethics, global mindsets and creative problem-solving techniques.

With a master’s degree in applied psychology, there are many careers you can pursue that allow you to utilize your understanding of the mind and human behavior to solve common issues.

Below, we’ve rounded up the top career paths that you can land in applied psychology.

Human Resources Specialist

When you work in human resources (HR), you have to handle the many human issues that arise when a group of people work together. As an HR specialist, you will be tasked with improving employee experience, promoting productivity, engaging the office and handling employee retention and talent acquisition. You will also have a hand in mediating conflict.

All of these responsibilities — and more — require a deep understanding of what motivates human beings and how workplace culture can influence behavior, making it a great fit for those interested in applied psychology.

Industrial Organizational Psychologist

HR isn’t the only career in which you can use psychology training to improve a company or organization. Industrial organizational psychologists focus on creating a positive, fulfilling work environment and collaborating closely with management to solve problems or issues within a business.

Industrial organizational psychologists may revamp the employee onboarding process, for example, or look at the way news is communicated across the organization. They also have a hand in determining workplace benefits, all using findings from psychological research.

Market Research and Consumer Insights Analyst

Market researchers and consumer insights analysts support companies to help them better understand their customers or clients. Analysts use research and data to study marketing materials and campaigns that are used to retain current consumers as well as gain new ones.

This field requires interpreting what appeals to customers and what doesn’t, what motivates people to spend money, and what causes them to become repeat customers. Simply put, it’s all about studying the minds of consumers. Clearly, it’s a great position for anyone with a psychology background.

Jury Trial Consultant

Before a case hits the courtroom, jury trial consultants conduct research for law firms or companies to assist with trial strategy and case assessment. Consultants manage focus groups, run mock trials and assist with witness preparation. They also research to identify the ideal juror profile and strategize jury questioning (known as the voir dire process).

Overall, jury trial consultants work to produce a winning outcome for their clients, tapping into jurors’ mindsets, behaviors and social dynamics to deliver successful results. As expected, a mastery of human behavior — especially in a group setting — is required to become a trial consultant, which is perfect for those in applied psychology.

Human Factors Engineer

To reduce the risk of human error, human factors engineers work to improve the design and construction of both products and systems. When devising and evaluating these tools and processes, human factors engineers focus on promoting health and safety in the workplace.

They consider all the ways people can make mistakes and then implement procedures and mechanisms to reduce those risks, leading to a more secure workplace. To identify the possible errors and liabilities, human factors engineers also will do extensive research and testing, often bringing in participants to get feedback. The role requires an understanding of how people think, act and feel, meaning it’s the optimal career path for those with a psychology background.

UX Researcher

A product cannot be created without considering why consumers would want to use it in the first place. That’s where a user experience (UX) researcher comes in. They study what consumers want and need so that a product can be designed with those desires in mind. It’s all about making sure the product delivers a great user experience.

A UX researcher will conduct surveys, focus groups, research, interviews, reviews and testing to support the product design process. As you’re diving into people’s motivations and how a certain product can fulfill their needs, the UX field is a great fit for those with a passion for applied psychology.

Learn more about the Master of Science in Applied Psychology (MAPP) online program at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences today.

What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?

Experts say a graduate degree in psychology can prepare you for a clinical or nonclinical career.

What to Do With a Psychology Degree

Getty Images

According to psychology degree holders, a formal education in how the human mind works is useful for numerous career paths.

A common misconception among those pursuing an advanced degree in psychology is that the degree will automatically lead to a career as a mental health care provider. While opportunities are available to those interested in seeking a career to help people struggling with mental illness, there are also many nonclinical jobs for those with a graduate degree in psychology.

What Jobs Can Someone Get With a Psychology Degree?

• Clinical psychologist
• Cognitive and perceptual psychologist
• Community psychologist
• Counseling psychologist
• Developmental psychologist
• Educational psychologist
• Engineering psychologist

"There's a general impression, which is incorrect, that if you major in psychology, you immediately want to go into the health professions, and you immediately are going to be a psychotherapist or work with people with emotional problems and that sort of thing," says Donald Leitner, a behavioral neuroscientist and professor and chair of psychology at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. "And that is only true of a branch of psychology, which is clinical psychology. There are many other branches of the modern discipline of psychology."

For instance, some psychology degree holders become researchers who use scientific experiments to clarify how the human mind works, while others design and administer IQ tests and personality assessments.

Also, therapists and counselors don't necessarily cater to individuals who suffer from serious mental health problems. "We're not only dealing with people with specific psychological, let's use the word, 'illnesses' or 'challenges,'" says William Gibson, an associate professor of psychology at Brandman University in California who specializes in family therapy and counsels people about gender and sexual identity.

Gibson, who also counsels families that have lost loved ones to suicide, says psychologists sometimes help psychologically healthy individuals find happiness.

Psychology Careers

The American Psychological Association offers an overview of the many types of jobs someone can get with a psychology degree in its online publication, " Careers in Psychology ." The publication notes that the term psychologist is reserved for psychology degree holders who have doctorates, and identifies more than 15 types of psychologists.

Here's a breakdown of different types:

• Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat short-term and chronic mental health issues.
• Cognitive and perceptual psychologists focus on how people see, understand and communicate with the outside world and how people remember past experiences. Researchers look for treatments for people with brain disorders while clinicians provide support to those with brain disorders.
• Community psychologists advise communities that are facing significant crises, such as disease epidemics and crime sprees, on the psychological aspects of such problems.
• Counseling psychologists are therapists and counselors who help people cope with difficult personal situations and provide guidance on how to achieve life goals.
• Developmental psychologists are experts in how the human mindset changes over the course of a lifespan and often conduct aging-related research. As clinicians, they assist children and adolescents struggling with psychological growing pains.
• Educational psychologists specialize in the psychology of teaching and learning and focus on improving student outcomes.
• Engineering psychologists , often called "human factors specialists" or "human factors psychologists," help design machines that are easy for people to use.
• Environmental psychologists are experts in how a person's physical and social environments affect the way that person feels and thinks.
• Evolutionary psychologists examine how natural selection has shaped human brains and influenced the way people think.
• Experimental psychologists conduct psychological experiments on humans and animals to answer scientific questions.
• Forensic psychologists focus on issues with legal implications, such as whether a criminal defendant is psychologically fit to face a trial, and may help law enforcement solve crimes.
• Health psychologists figure out how people with poor health habits can maximize their well-being.
• Industrial-organizational psychologists concentrate on the way human psychology affects the performance of businesses and other organizations.
• Neuropsychologists , sometimes called behavioral neuropsychologists, are experts in how the biology of the brain and nervous system impacts human behavior, thoughts and feelings.
• Quantitative and measurement psychologists are mathematically inclined professionals who ensure that data from psychological experiments and assessments is accurately interpreted, and create models that aid precise data analysis.
• Rehabilitation psychologists provide counseling and treatment to people with traumatic physical injuries or serious disabilities.
• School psychologists offer psychological support to students and their families.
• Social psychologists focus on the ways that society influences how people think and act and study the way people in relationships interact with each other.
• Sport psychologists focus on helping athletes maintain motivation and resilience during and outside competitions.

Nonacademic, Nonclinical Psychology Careers

Karen Stamm, director of the Center for Workforce Studies at the American Psychological Association, says it's common for people with psychology doctorates to have jobs outside of academia and health care.

"Only about half of psychology doctorates work in 'traditional' occupations (psychologist or psychology professor)," Stamm, who has a Ph.D. in psychology, wrote in an email. "The other half work in a variety of occupations, such (as) professors in fields other than psychology, managers and administrators, writers, etc."

Psychologists often conduct research for clients and serve as industry consultants, says Susann Doyle-Portillo, a department head of psychological science at the University of North Georgia .

"For example, a human factors psychologist [an engineering psychologist] may work for an auto manufacturer to help design instrument panels in cars that promote safety and ease of use by consumers," Doyle-Portillo wrote in an email. "A social psychologist may consult with trial attorneys on ways to best persuade juries. A developmental psychologist may help design educational toys or software and so on."

Psychology degree holders say that a formal education in how the human mind works is useful for numerous career paths. Understanding how people think is especially useful in professions that involve understanding or influencing public opinion, such as advertising or politics, experts suggest.

"I would say that psychology programs impart a very critical and marketable skill: the ability to measure, predict, and statistically analyze human behavior," says Nick Schweitzer, an associate professor at Arizona State University's School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. "These skills are highly sought after in a very large variety of employment sectors."

Here are some brief descriptions of a few of the many nonclinical and nontherapeutic applications of psychology.

Business and Entrepreneurship

Individuals can leverage psychology education at for-profit companies by using their people skills to figure out which people are worth investing in and relying upon, according to psychology experts. Psychology grads' perceptiveness about how people think and feel makes them a great fit for human resources roles, experts emphasize, and also helps them become managers since they are often excellent at relating to others.

Executives with psych degrees are often skilled at finding precisely the right words to say to motivate subordinates, and they tend to be good at assessing credibility, experts say.

"Emotional intelligence is enormously important in business," Anthony Babbitt, a change management consultant, business strategist and executive mentor with South Dakota-based Babbitt Consulting, wrote in en email.

"A degree in psychology not only assists in developing one's own emotional intelligence but also helps in coaching others to develop their own," adds Babbitt, who has a master's degree in psychology.

Experts note that some psych programs involve a significant amount of mathematics, and those programs can provide strong preparation for business analytics positions.

Knowing why students misbehave can help educators empathize with those students, psychology experts say, so the education sector is an area where a psychology degree comes in handy. Educators with a psychology background are often especially good at encouraging students with emotional difficulties, so this is a context where a psychology credential is valuable.

Katie Burns, a master college admissions counselor with the IvyWise admissions consulting firm, says she uses her psychology training "every day" when she interacts with students.

"Knowing the difference between normal teenage moodiness and actual depression, understanding the variety of treatment interventions that can be effective for teenagers struggling with various mental health issues, and being equipped with skills in motivational interviewing, executive functioning, and personal introspection are all things that help me to provide the best holistic counseling for my students," Burns wrote in an email.

Legal and Law Enforcement Careers

Intensive education on how to assess character that is provided via a psychology degree is helpful for careers in law or law enforcement, experts say. "I feel like more and more students are turning to forensic psychology as they apply psychology to the field of criminal investigation and the law," Julia Simens, a retired school counselor with a master's degree in clinical psychology, wrote in an email.

Media, Advertising and Marketing

An understanding of peoples' deepest desires is helpful if you are trying to sell them something, experts say.

"Social psychologists with expertise in persuasion can develop effective marketing campaigns and advertisements," Doyle-Portillo explains.

Product and Service Invention and Design

Psychology knowledge can inform predictions about what types of products and services consumers would be most interested in and offer insight into which features consumers would be willing to pay a premium for, according to experts.

Understanding the way voters think and feel can help someone anticipate how voters might react to political speeches and policies, so a psychology background is helpful in politics, experts say.

Psychology degree programs typically include a lot of coursework in data analysis and statistics , and skill in those two areas is useful for nearly any kind of research, experts explain.

"The statistics and research methods foundation you will learn in psychology coursework opens the door to conduct research in the area of human psychology, but also across industries," Erin Reynolds, a Texas-based clinical sports neuropsychologist with a master's degree and Psy.D. doctorate in clinical psychology , wrote in an email.

Sport and Performance Coaching

Sports and performance psychologists specialize in assisting individuals who need to excel in high-pressure environments and do well despite being nervous, says Casey Horton, who has a master's degree in sport and performance psychology and is pursuing a doctorate in the field.

"We all work with athletes and performers to help them maintain their mental focus during performance," Horton, the founder of Texas-based Clutch Play! Performance Psychology, wrote in an email.

"For example, athletes have important shots to make, routes to run, and victories needed. We help them focus on their ability to perform with their nerves under control. For a salesperson or a business person, they have meetings, sales pitches, and PowerPoint presentations to make to ensure the company lands a sale or a contract. In all of these scenarios, they have to be focused and deliver an error free performance."

Psychology degree recipients are often hired by prestigious tech corporations like Facebook, Netflix, Twitter and Google, since those companies are interested in creating an excellent user experience, according to experts. Schweitzer notes that grads of the ASU psych program often work in the technology industry, and their jobs typically focus on assessing how users interact with technology and recommending adjustments to that technology based on what users need and want most.

Job Opportunities Vary Depending on the Type of Degree

Julie Gurner, an executive performance coach who has a Psy.D. degree in clinical psychology, says the jobs that psychology degree holders are marketable for depend on their specific discipline.

"For example, someone who is in experimental psychology would spend their career conducting research, while someone with a clinical psychology degree would likely be in academics or health care. There are so many different types of psychology that are not related to counseling that most do not realize," Gurner said via email.

A Psychology Doctorate Can Lead to Lucrative Jobs

A doctorate in psychology is typically more marketable and profitable than a less advanced degree, Reynolds says.

"Only those with a doctorate in psychology can use the title 'psychologist,'" she wrote in an email. "This opens many more doors in terms of what you can do and how much autonomy you can have in the workplace. It also allows you to bill for services at a higher rate than a master's level clinician in many cases."

Reynolds says a bachelor's degree in psychology "is a great generalist degree that allows you to apply to grad school, law school, or even medical school, but on its own doesn’t amount to much more than a liberal arts degree."

However, some who have only a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology say that a psychology doctorate was not necessary for them to achieve their career goals. Meg Schmitz, a senior franchise consultant with FranChoice, a company that matches prospective franchise owners with a business that fits their skills and interests, says her bachelor's degree in counseling psychology provided her with training for her first job at a personnel agency.

A Master's or Bachelor's Can Offer an Array of Career Paths

Someone with a bachelor's or master's in psychology can use that degree in many ways, experts emphasize.

"A psych degree is like a skeleton key, or a universal degree," Schmitz wrote in an email. "You can unlock anything with a psych degree. Its utility is industry agnostic, not specific. Any career that includes interacting with others in order to influence or guide them, like customer service or sales, influencers or activists, parents and children to increase engagement, will benefit from greater knowledge of the human condition and common personality traits, triggers and behaviors."

Psychology-related jobs exist in multiple industries, according to experts.

"Many undergraduates find employment after graduation in areas such as human resources, law enforcement, employment counseling, insurance companies, nonprofit organizations, child care, mental health, health care settings, public affairs, business, sales, administrative support and so on," Doyle-Portillo says.

Simens notes that she did not need a doctorate in order to establish a fulfilling psychology career .

"In my position, having a doctorate would have made no difference whatsoever," Simens says.

The Difference Between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D.

Experts note an important distinction between a research doctorate in psychology, known as a Ph.D., and a clinical doctorate, known as a Psy.D. While the Ph.D. is the traditional degree for aspiring psychology researchers, the Psy.D. is designed for future psychology clinicians.

"Ph.D. programs are the gold standard for those going into psychological research, and Ph.D. degrees are typically required or desired for most academic and high-level industry jobs," Schweitzer wrote in an email.

Clinical psychologist Sarah Gray – founder, owner and director of a Massachusetts psychology practice, Integrative Psychology and Behavioral Medicine – says she chose to earn a Psy.D. as opposed to a Ph.D. because she was most interested in therapy.

"I knew I would want to spend most of my time practicing psychology as opposed to working in a research lab," says Gray, who also is a psychology instructor at Harvard Medical School .

How to Choose a Psychology Program

"It's important to note that a graduate degree in psychology does not, in and of itself, allow someone to provide psychotherapy services," says Carla Marie Manly, a California-based clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. "Internships and licensure are required to obtain the necessary accreditation to provide services to clients."

Manly notes that most "in-depth psychological programs" cultivate skills in communication, leadership and problem-solving, which are applicable to a wide range of jobs.

"Psychology is actually a very diverse field," Schweitzer says. "While many people think of psychology as the study and treatment of mental health issues, the field is about understanding everything about human behaviors, thoughts and emotions."

Searching for a grad school? Access our complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

See the Top Graduate Psychology Programs

Tags: psychology , education , students , graduate schools

You May Also Like

15 b-schools with low acceptance rates.

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn June 5, 2024

Advice About Online J.D. Programs

Gabriel Kuris June 3, 2024

Questions to Ask Ahead of Law School

Cole Claybourn May 31, 2024

Tips for Secondary Med School Essays

Cole Claybourn May 30, 2024

Ways Women Can Thrive in B-School

Anayat Durrani May 29, 2024

Study Away or Abroad in Law School

Gabriel Kuris May 28, 2024

A Guide to Executive MBA Degrees

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn May 24, 2024

How to Choose a Civil Rights Law School

Anayat Durrani May 22, 2024

Avoid Procrastinating in Medical School

Kathleen Franco, M.D., M.S. May 21, 2024

Good Law School Recommendation Letters

Gabriel Kuris May 20, 2024

9 Highest Paying Jobs With a Psychology Degree

Author: University of North Dakota May 28, 2024

Psychologists play a crucial role in improving lives, whether they're helping someone navigate significant life changes or supporting those battling chronic mental health conditions.

Request Information

Despite the noble nature of this profession, those pursuing a career in psychology are also compensated for their vital contributions to society and individual well-being.

Indeed, not all psychology roles are created equal in terms of monetary rewards. If you're curious about which positions top the financial spectrum, continue reading as we explore the highest paying jobs with a psychology degree and see whether your area of interest aligns with these lucrative career opportunities.

9 Highest Paying Psychology Jobs

Education in psychology typically starts with obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology. However, this field's actual depth and specialization come at the graduate level, where students can pursue various specialized roles through master's and doctoral programs. 

In the following sections, we will explore ten of the highest paying psychology jobs, detailing what each role entails, the necessary education requirements, and, of course, the potential salaries associated with each position.

1. Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychologists specialize in the relationship between the physical brain and behavior. They diagnose and treat individuals with neurological, medical, or neurodevelopmental disorders that affect cognitive functions and behaviors. Their expertise is often critical in diagnosing conditions that affect memory, language, attention, and problem-solving abilities. 

Neuropsychologists perform detailed assessments to understand brain functioning and guide treatment plans for rehabilitation from brain injuries or management of brain diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.

Salary: $122,928 per year

Education Requirements: Ph.D. or Psy.D. in neuropsychology or clinical neuropsychology, followed by a postdoctoral residency.

2. Health Psychologist

Health psychologists explore the psychological and behavioral processes in health, illness, and healthcare. They strive to understand how to promote health and improve healthcare systems by researching how individuals respond to and cope with illness. 

Health psychologists tend to work in medical settings, academia, public health organizations, or private practice, with the aim to integrate psychological treatment into medical and social care.

Salary: $120,811 per year

Education Requirements: Ph.D. or Psy.D. in health psychology, often with a clinical focus; licensure required.

3. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological theories and research methods to solve workplace problems and improve the quality of work life. They study workplace productivity and management styles and work closely with human resources to develop programs that enhance work performance and employee satisfaction. 

Their work may include conducting employee training, developing assessment methods for personnel selection and placement, planning organizational restructuring, and helping organizations manage change during mergers or downsizing.

Salary: $120,524 per year

Education Requirements: Master's or Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology.

4. Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists are one of the most common group of psychologists. They treat a wide range of mental health issues across different population groups. Clinical psychologists employ various psychotherapeutic methods and psychological tests to understand and treat psychological problems and behavioral dysfunctions.

In addition to providing psychotherapy, they may conduct scientific studies, develop treatment plans, and offer psychoeducation to help individuals manage chronic health conditions. While they are not allowed to prescribe medications, in some states such as Louisiana and New Mexico they can do so after they obtain certain licenses. 

Salary: $109,894 per year

Education Requirements: Ph.D. in clinical psychology , including internships and residencies; licensure required.

5. General/Experimental Psychology

General or Experimental Psychologists primarily engage in research and theory testing to understand how and why humans and animals behave the way they do. They might explore fundamental processes like learning, sensory perception, motivation, and emotion in various environments. 

Their work often contributes to developing new knowledge that can be applied to improving educational, technological, and healthcare strategies. These psychologists typically work in university settings, private research organizations, or government agencies, contributing to a broad understanding of behavioral science.

Salary: $92,813 per year

Education Requirements:   Ph.D. in general/experimental psychology .

6. Engineering Psychologist

Engineering psychologists focus on optimizing human capabilities by designing user-friendly systems and devices. By applying psychological science to the design of products such as computer interfaces, cars, and medical equipment, they improve usability, increase productivity, and minimize error. 

Their work may involve conducting user experience research to understand how improvements in product design can enhance safety and overall user satisfaction in various technological applications. 

Education Requirements: Master's degree or Ph.D. in engineering psychology.

7. School Psychologist

School psychologists work in educational settings, addressing students' social, emotional, academic, and psychological needs. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments. 

These psychologists assess and counsel students, manage behavior, support learning, and work on intervention strategies for students with special needs. They also help with crisis management and evaluate programs that teach students with learning and behavioral problems.

Education Requirements: Advanced degree in school psychology, typically an Ed.S. (Educational Specialist) or Ph.D./Psy.D., along with state certification or licensure.

8. Forensic Psychologist

Forensic Psychologists blend psychology with the legal system, assessing individuals involved in legal proceedings and providing expert psychological evaluations. They may work on child custody disputes, insurance claims, and lawsuits to assess psychological harm or criminal cases to evaluate mental competency or criminal responsibility.

Forensic psychologists are also involved in designing correctional programs, profiling criminal behavior, and understanding the psychological problems associated with criminal behavior. 

Salary: $87,877 per year

Education Requirements: Ph.D. or Psy.D. in forensic psychology; additional certification in forensic psychology may be required for court work. Certain states will allow graduates with only a master's in forensic psychology to practice but under the supervision of a psychologist with a doctoral-level degree.

9. Counseling Psychologist

Counseling Psychologists specialize in helping individuals improve their personal and interpersonal functioning throughout their lives. They place particular emphasis on addressing emotional, social, vocational, educational, health-related, developmental, and organizational concerns. 

Counseling psychologists may work with individuals, families, groups, or couples to improve their well-being, alleviate distress and maladjustment, and resolve crises. Additionally, they might participate in research and teaching related to counselor training.

Salary: $83,804 per year

Education Requirements: Master's or Ph.D. in counseling psychology ; licensure required.

Factors That Influence Your Salary

The salary of professionals with a psychology degree can vary significantly based on several factors. First, geographic location plays a crucial role, as demonstrated by the disparities in average annual salaries across different states . For instance, in Oregon, Alaska, and North Dakota, psychologists enjoy some of the highest average salaries in the United States, with figures nearing or surpassing $176,000.

In contrast, states like West Virginia and Florida offer much lower average salaries, around $111,019 and $106,610, respectively. Additionally, salaries can vary within states, highlighting the influence of location even further.

Education level and years of experience also heavily influence earning potential in psychology. Higher educational qualifications and extensive experience enhance a professional's expertise and credibility as well as open up opportunities for advancement into leadership or specialized roles, which typically offer higher compensation.

For example, professionals with a doctoral degree or those who have completed specialized training and certifications are often considered for more senior positions, which command higher salaries.

Moreover, as we've seen, specialization within psychology affects salary prospects. Different areas of practice and expertise come with varying demands and remuneration. Clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, and industrial-organizational psychologists, among others, tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in more general roles. This variance is due to the specialized skills and knowledge required in these fields, the complexity of the cases handled, and the direct impact these roles have on organizational performance or individual health outcomes.

Choosing a career that not only sparks your interest but also provides immense satisfaction through its impact is crucial. However, the financial aspects also play a vital role, as they support your own life and future aspirations.

At UND, the Department of Psychology, with over a century of academic excellence , is fully equipped to support you on your journey to becoming a professional in the field. After all, understanding the power of the mind can unlock the potential of the future.

How do I decide which specialization within psychology is right for me? ( Open this section)

To decide which psychology specialization fits you, it’s best to explore your interests in different areas of psychology by taking a variety of courses, as well as considering what issues you are passionate about solving. At the same time, engaging in internships or volunteer work can also provide practical insights that help solidify your decision.

What is the job outlook for psychologists in the current market? ( Open this section)

The job outlook for psychologists is promising, with an expected growth rate of 6% for the 2022 - 2023 period, with about 12,000 new job openings every year. The growth is about as fast as the average for all occupations, mainly driven by increased demand for psychological services in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and social services.

What skills are important for success in psychology careers? ( Open this section)

Key skills for success in psychology include strong analytical thinking, exceptional communication abilities, empathy, patience, and problem-solving skills. Other valuable skills in the profession are the he capacity to handle complex data and a deep understanding of human behavior.

By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies, Privacy Information .

10 PhD in Psychology Jobs

Created by careersinpsychology

Sponsored School(s)

Careers in psychology can last for decades, so you definitely want to pick the right path before you get started.

Psychology is a huge field, and jobs after a PhD in psychology cover a huge spectrum of interests, specialties, and industries.

You’re probably already well aware that those kind of qualifications don’t come cheap. According to 2020 data from NCES, the six or seven years you will spend in grad school getting that PhD or PsyD will run you anywhere from $73,000 to over $155,000 depending on the university.

Before you fork over that kind of cash, you probably want to know what jobs you can get with a PhD in psychology.

PhD in psychology careers are both lucrative and fulfilling. But they require specialization and focus, so you need to think about what area you want to concentrate in before you begin your PhD in psychology program.

These 10 doctorate in psychology jobs are some of the options on the table after you graduate.

1. Clinical Psychologist

Doctorate in psychology jobs don’t get any more iconic than work as a clinical psychologist. You want the office with a couch and people laying on it telling you about their childhood? This is the PhD in psychology career you pick to get it.

Clinical psychologists work directly with individuals and groups who need professional psychoanalysis to help them through mental health issues. Private practice isn’t the only option in this role, though. Plenty of clinical psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and larger rehabilitation or long-term care facilities. You have a wide range of subspecialties you can choose from, ranging from addiction issues to couples counseling. Or you can remain a generalist, and enjoy the variety of challenges that walk in the door needing your assistance.

2. Research Psychologist

If you aren’t as much of a people-person, but are fascinated by behaviors and thought processes, then becoming a research psychologist may be the right pick for you. Research psychologists don’t engage in one-to-one therapy work, but instead investigate the causes and cures of mental illness in general. That can involve devising and executing psychological experiments, or mining huge databases of behavioral data to uncover trends.

3. Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

I/O psychologists make their mark in the psychology of work. Businesses and other organizations need to understand how group psychology effects productivity, happiness, and cohesion in the workplace. There is a science to workplace dynamics. A doctorate in psychology gives you the toolset to understand how groups interact under the hierarchy and pressure of a factory floor, a hospital ward, or a trading desk. Public and private companies can pay out big bucks for the right kind of advice to make their organizations more efficient and effective.

An online PhD degree can make it easy for you to build up the practical experience you need in this specialty even while you are still studying.

4. Forensic Psychologist

With shows like Criminal Minds and the popular CSI series making a splash in popular culture, a lot of people are pursuing a PhD in psychology with the idea of becoming a forensic psychologist. If you want to understand exactly how twisted and dark the human brain can become, a doctorate is definitely in your future.

But forensic psychologists aren’t usually chasing shadowy figures into dark allies and deducing where serial killers work and play. Forensic psychology is really a specialty that has to do with the psychology of law and legal process. That goes far beyond criminal justice, extending to jury evaluation in civil trials, public policy analysis, and even reviewing laws before they are passed to assess the impact on individuals and society.

5. Educational Psychologist

The human brain is in many ways a learning machine. How we process, absorb, and interpret the world around us is a constant consideration for all psychologists. But educational psychologists specialize in understanding how we acquire, process, and interpret knowledge.

Many educational psychologists work in schools, offering counseling to children, but it’s a broader role than that. Psychologists in this job may evaluate textbooks and curricula to make sure they are optimized for delivering information, or evaluate standardized tests to be sure they are accurately measuring knowledge. Educational policy and legislative development lean heavily on research pioneered by these doctorate in psychology jobs.

6. Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychology is also concerned with how the brain learns and grows, but it’s a field with bigger fish to fry than just educational matters. It’s the study of mental processes across the lifespan, as the brain and sensory systems grow, mature, and eventually began to deteriorate. Developmental psychologists study and diagnose developmental mental health disorders, playing an important role in pediatric healthcare. But they are also active in researching some of the biggest issues at the other end of the lifespan, looking for ways to cure or treat Alzheimer's and other age-related psychological issues.

7. Social Psychologist

If you’ve ever wondered why a meme goes viral, the social psychology might be the PhD in psychology career for you.

Social psychologists take on some of the most fascinating challenges in the field: they specialize in how individuals both influence and are affected in their thinking by interacting with others. Group think is a thing, and how it happens is the province of the social psychologist. They examine how cultures come from shared thought patterns, and how those patterns both fulfill and constrain the thoughts of people within them.

Understanding social interactions and psychological effects is important for big companies, governments, and healthcare organizations. Social psychology researchers also have plenty of impact on marketing and sales campaigns, right down to picking out the colors for product logos.

8. Health Psychologist

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, health psychology has developed into one of the most fascinating branches of the field. The world has turned into a showcase of reactions to the coronavirus, from panic to outright denial, providing data that will feed future health psychology PhD dissertations for decades.

But it’s also a moment in which more people than ever need the kind of help and advice that health psychologists can offer. From counseling patients on ventilators and in isolation to advising public health agencies on the best campaigns to increase vaccine acceptance rates, health psychologists have had their shining moment thrust upon them. With new recognition of the importance of professional PhD counseling in healthcare, that moment isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.

9. Sports Psychologist

Becoming a sports psychologist is a dream job for any sports fan. Since there are a lot of sports fans in the United States, that makes it a particularly tough field to get into. But the rewards are massive.

Sports psychologists can and do work with pro athletes in any kind of competitive event, including big names who play for major teams. They might work for the teams themselves, advising on team building and coaching processes. In other cases, they work with individual athletes to maximize performance or help with injury recovery.

But sports psychologists play important roles in rehab and assisting amateur athletes, too. Not everyone needs to work for an NBA team to get satisfaction and deliver real results in this field.

10. Neuropsychologist

We saved the toughest job for last. Neuropsychologists explore the boundaries between the mental and the physical. They study the physiological processes underlying thoughts, perceptions, and feelings for a better understanding of how people think. That gives them an edge in determining when problems are purely psychological, or have a basis in physical injury or disease.

The reverse is also true, and neuropsychologists play an important role in research by helping the field of brain science interpret findings of imaging and experiments by translating them into effects on mental processes. New understanding of traumatic brain injury and diseases like Alzheimer's come out of neuropsychology research. It’s one of the most rewarding PhD in psychology jobs you will find.

Research Careers

• Psychologists
• Social Workers

Finding a Program

• Associate's Programs
• Bachelor's Programs
• Master's Programs
• Doctoral Programs
• Program Directory

Explore Degree Paths

• Choosing a School / Degree
• Bachelor's Degrees
• Master's Degrees
• Doctorate Degrees

Work Experience

• Psychology Internships

• Psychology Programs

What Can I Do With a PhD in Psychology? – PhD in Psychology Career Options

Professionals who earn their Ph.D. in psychology have many more career options available to them than Masters level and Bachelors prepared individuals.

Not only are incomes generally higher with a Ph.D. but jobs are more plentiful and varied after the completion of doctoral level training. Also, in order to actually be considered a psychologist, a doctoral degree in psychology is generally mandatory .

Doctoral prepared professionals generally choose between applied psychology careers and research oriented careers . Applied psychology careers consist of the professional delivering psychological services directly to clients.

Psychologists deals with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. They also frequently provide preventative services for various entities. Some psychologists also apply psychological theories to help businesses overcome challenges and improve workplace productivity.

Other doctoral level professionals choose to dedicate their careers to conducting research. In many universities, doctoral level faculty only spend a small amount of time teaching classes as they spend the majority of their time engaged in research. They often manage laboratories, recruit research trainees, and publish their findings in academic journals.

Research psychologists also spend a lot of time giving talks about their research findings, attending conferences, and more experienced professionals are sometimes called upon to give peer reviews for well-respected academic and professional journals.

Additionally, many research psychologists also find themselves writing grant applications to get funding for their research projects.

What are the Career Options With a PhD in Psychology?

Listed below are some of the popular career options that you can pursue with a PhD in psychology:

Clinical Psychologist

Industrial organizational psychologist, forensic psychologist, rehabilitation psychologist, experimental psychologist, school psychologist.

• Sports Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• Child Psychologist
• Mental Health Psychologist

Clinical psychologists often work in private practice providing evaluations and treatment for individuals who are experiencing mental health issues. However, you will also find a significant amount of these professionals working in hospitals, clinics, residential facilities, and other institutions that provide mental health services. A clinical psychologist in these settings might be a practitioner or an administrator.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical psychologists earn an average mean wage of $102,740 annually, as of May 2023.

Companies hire industrial-organizationalpPsychologists to develop strategies to increase productivity and improve employee retention rates. These professionals focus on organizational structure, employee recruitment and selection, job satisfaction, and the development of better machines and systems for employee comfort. Industrial-organizational psychologists identify methods that work best in the workplace and make recommendations for improvement.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average mean wage of $144,610 annually, as of May 2023.

Forensic psychologists take psychological insights and apply that to legal matters. This specialized area of psychology focuses on criminal and civil matters to include law enforcement, jury selection, probation and parole, victim advocacy, family law, mental status competency, risk assessments, civil commitments, juvenile delinquency, insurance claims, and many other areas of the justice system.

Careers for forensic psychologists are diverse and can include functioning as a court consultant, providing mental health services in correctional facilities, working with law enforcement, or providing victim advocacy.

Although a specific wage for a forensic psychologist was not noted, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians who also serve as Expert Witnesses, earn an average mean wage of $147,585 annually, as of January 2024.

Rehabilitation psychologists work with people who have suffered a significant loss or are struggling with adjusting to life with a disability. These professionals focus on the psychological aspects of loss, disability, and rehabilitation.

Typical clients could include someone who has recently become a paraplegic, is dealing with cancer, or is experiencing a chronic medical condition. Practitioners give their clients the support that they need as they adjust to their new life with the condition.

Researchers in the field of rehabilitation psychology explore how various factors, including biological, social, and environmental issues, affect people with disabilities and other chronic illnesses.

According to ZipRecruiter, the related field of rehabilitation counselor earns an average mean wage of $95,854 annually, as of January 2024.

Experimental psychologists are professionals who specialize in the study of human behavior and cognition. Their research generally explores thinking, learning, attention, motivation, and other cognitive functions. Although they do work with humans, they also study animals such as rats, monkeys, and pigeons.

Experimental psychologists can work in research settings, as consultants for businesses, and are even called upon to develop strategies to help lessen the psychological impact of high intensity training on military personnel.

School psychologists are employed by public school districts, private schools, and learning centers to help students overcome challenges related to disabilities, emotional issues, social adjustment, or other behavioral problems that impede learning. They evaluate the effectiveness of the educational process for students and use available resources as well new strategies to help students improve performance.

School psychologists also help students indirectly by working with teachers, parents, and school administrators to create individualized educational programs for students who are struggling to learn.

In many school districts, they also help administrators with the development of programs for Gifted learners. The goal of school psychologists in this role is to support teachers and parents in implementing individualized instructional strategies for students.

Some professionals specialize in working with specific groups of students such as children with Learning Disabilities, Gifted learners, or Adult learners.

According to ZipRecruiter, school psychologists earn an average mean wage of $92,813 annually, as of January 2024.

Sports psychologists are qualified professionals who help athletes to overcome problems, improve performance and achieve their goals. They draw their knowledge from many fields such as physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and kinesiology.

Sports psychologists explore the link between the psychological and physical factors that affect performance and try to establish what issues are preventing athletes from performing at full potential.

Their role may also involve acting as a consultant, a trainer or a therapist. Therapy may be needed for issues such as career transitions, eating disorders or off-field problems that effect on-field performance.

Working as a trainer may include assistance with rehabilitation after an injury. Athletic teams often consult with sports psychologists or employ one to help with various issues such as group dynamics and leadership issues.

Some sports psychologists become researchers who explore issues such as factors that lead to success, the effects of athletic participation on individuals or the psychological effects of a physical injury.

According to the American Psychological Association’s (APA), sports psychologists can expect to earn between $60,000 and $180,000 a year, with some annual salaries reaching $100,000.

What is the Job Outlook for Psychology Careers?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that although the employment growth of psychologists is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, career prospects are far better for those who have a doctoral degree in psychology.

Related Reading

• How to Prepare for a Career in Psychology
• Top Psychology PhD Programs That Don’t Require GRE
• What is the Difference Between a Master’s and a PhD in Psychology
• Associate Degrees
• Bachelors Degrees
• Masters Degrees
• PhD Programs
• Addiction Counselor
• Criminal Psychologist
• Family Therapist
• General Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Industrial-Organizational
• See More Careers
• Applied Psychology
• Business Psychology
• Child Psychology
• Counseling Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Industrial Psychology
• Sports Psychology
• See More Programs
• Clinical Psychology Degree
• Cognitive Psychology Degree
• Forensic Psychology Degree
• Health Psychology Degree
• Mental Counseling Degree
• Social Psychology Degree
• School Counseling Degree
• Behavioral Psychologist Career
• Clinical Psychologist Career
• Cognitive Psychologist Career
• Counseling Psychologist Career
• Forensic Psychologist Career
• School Psychologist Career
• Social Psychologist Career

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Best Family Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

8 Types of Child Psychology Careers

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Cara Lustik is a fact-checker and copywriter.

At a Glance

Child psychology careers can be a great way to put your psychology degree to great use. Such jobs often focus on helping kids deal with emotional, developmental, social, academic, or behavioral concerns. A few great careers in child psychology include becoming a:

• Child psychologist
• School psychologist
• Developmental psychologist
• School counselor
• Family therapist
• Animal-assisted therapist
• Art therapist
• Social worker

Let's take a closer look at what these careers involve, typical salaries, and educational requirements.

Working with children can be fun and challenging, a perfect mix for people who love kids and are looking for a rewarding career. One of the greatest things about choosing a child-related profession is that you have the opportunity to truly make a difference in the lives of the kids, particularly those who may be vulnerable, at-risk, or in need of assistance.

If you're looking for a fulfilling career, consider some child psychology careers that involve helping children fulfill their physical, mental, educational, and social needs.

Child Psychologist

Child psychologists deal specifically with the psychological, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of children. These professionals can work in a wide variety of settings, including schools, private practice, hospitals, and research settings.

Child psychologists employed in school settings may help children struggling with behavior issues, while those who work in private therapy practices often assess, diagnose, and treat specific mental disorders.

While there are some positions available with a master's degree , you will generally find a wider range of job opportunities at the doctoral level.​

Payscale.com suggests that as of 2024, the median yearly salary for child psychologists was $72,862. A child therapist salary can vary considerably depending on factors such as geographic location, educational background, and years of experience.

School Psychologist

School psychologists are dedicated to helping children succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. These professionals work within the school system, allying with educators, administrators, counselors, and parents to help kids with school and other issues.

School psychologists perform a wide range of functions, including providing counseling, diagnosing learning problems, creating positive learning environments, and designing specific behavioral interventions.

Most states require school psychologists to hold a specialist degree, although some do permit people to become licensed with a master's degree. An EdS specialist degree in school psychology usually takes two years of graduate study plus a one-year internship in a supervised setting.​

The mean annual salary for psychologists employed in elementary and secondary schools was $82,770 as of May 2021.

Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychologists study the human growth and development process. While some developmental psychologists are interested in the aging process or lifespan development, some choose to focus specifically on children.

Developmental psychologists often conduct research on topics such as how language skills are acquired, how moral reasoning develops, or how early childhood attachment impacts later relationships.

Other developmental psychologists work directly with children doing things such as determining if a child has a specific developmental delay or disability.

Most developmental psychologists hold a PhD or PsyD in developmental psychology.​

As of 2024, the median annual salary for developmental psychologists was between $64,440 and $86,309, according to the Salary Wizard at Salary.com.

School Counselor

School counselors help students cope with school and personal issues as well as helping them succeed academically. Counselors also offer educational, personal, career, and social counseling services to students.

These professionals often help students with academic planning such as choosing classes, determining which colleges they might want to attend, and exploring various career options.

They also offer advice and counseling to students struggling with personal problems, help resolve social conflicts, and assist students in developing new skills.

In most states, graduation from an accredited master's program, a period of supervised clinical experience, and the completion of state licensing exams are required to work as a school counselor.​

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook , the median yearly salary for a school counselor working in an elementary or secondary school was $65,930 as of 2022.

Family Therapists

Family therapists work with children and families to diagnose and treat mental illness. They also help families deal with emotional, social, cognitive, and behavioral problems that affect individuals and the family as a whole.

They may do this by offering family therapy services to an individual and counseling sessions focused on the family unit.

Educational, licensing, and certification requirements can vary by state. Many family therapists are licensed counselors who hold a master's degree in counseling . Others might hold a doctorate degree in psychology or a master's degree in social work .​

The Department of Labor reports that as of May 2022, the yearly median salary for family therapists was $56,570.

Animal-Assisted Therapist

Animal-assisted therapy is a growing field in psychology that involves offering therapeutic services with the assistance of pets. Research has shown that interacting with animals can have a number of benefits such as improving emotional, cognitive, social, and physical functioning.

While animal-assisted therapists can work with people of all ages, some choose to specialize in working with children suffering from physical or developmental difficulties such as delayed physical development or autism spectrum disorders.

At a minimum, you will need a bachelor's degree in psychology , social work, nursing, education, or a related area. A graduate degree in counseling, social work, occupational therapy, or psychology may lead to increased job opportunities and earnings.

Additionally, you should receive training specifically in animal-assisted therapy. Some colleges and universities now offer an animal-assisted therapy certificate.​

Earnings vary widely depending on the training, qualifications, and employment area. For example, physical therapists earn an average of $97,720 while psychologists earn an average of $85,330.

Art Therapist

Art therapists utilize art as an expressive medium to help people experiencing psychological distress and mental illness. Professionals in this field combine principles from psychotherapy with art and the creative process to enhance the well-being and mental health of their clients.

Art therapists often work with children experiencing developmental delays, children suffering from anxiety, and kids who have endured some type of trauma.

While specific requirements vary by state, most require you to become licensed to provide psychotherapy services. This might involve earning a doctorate in psychology, a master's in counseling or a master's in social work.

The Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc. (ATCB) offers a credentialing program that allows professionals to become board-certified, registered or licensed art therapists.​

Yearly earnings vary considerably based on your educational background, years of experience, and geographic location. National salary data from Payscale.com suggests that the median salary for an art therapist in 2024 is $49,760.

Social Worker

Social workers perform a wide range of duties, but many specialize in working with children. A few of the things that a social worker might do regularly include:

• Helping kids overcome behavior problems
• Finding resources in their communities to help young clients
• Protecting vulnerable clients to ensure their best interests are upheld
• Acting as advocates for children

Helping single parents, arranging foster care and adoptions, and counseling children are common tasks that a social worker might perform.

While a bachelor degree in social work is the minimum degree required to enter the field, jobs are more abundant with a master's degree in social work.

The median pay for social workers as of May 2022 was $55,350. The National Association of Social Workers reports that those with a master's degree earn $13,000 a year more than those with a bachelor's degree.

What This Means For You

These are just a few different types of child psychology jobs that you might want to consider if you are interested in helping kids. Such jobs can be challenging at times, but they can also be very rewarding. If you are interested in child development and enjoy working with kids, consider going into one of these fascinating fields. 

Payscale. Average child psychologist salary .

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 19-3034 School psychologists: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021 .

Salary.com. Developmental Psychologist Salary in the United States .

Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Psychologists .

Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Marriage and Family Therapists .

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Institutes of Health. NIH News in Health. The Power of Pets: Health Benefits of Human-Animal Interactions .

Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physical Therapists .

Van Lith T.  Art therapy in mental health: A systematic review of approaches and practices .  The Arts in Psychotherapy . 2016;47:9-22. doi:10.1016/j.aip.2015.09.003

Payscale. Average Art Therapist Salary .

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Social workers: Pay . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

National Association of Social Workers. Social Work Salaries .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."