What is Psychology?
Psychology is the study of the human mind and behavior. It is a versatile degree that can lead to many different career paths, though most careers in the field require quite a lot of education before you can get to work. If you are interested in pursuing a career in psychology, there are many different colleges and universities that offer excellent programs.
Psychology degrees range from associate’s to doctoral degrees. An associate or bachelor's degree in psychology can give you a strong foundation in the field and prepare you for entry-level jobs in the field. A master's or doctoral degree will allow you to pursue a more specialized area of interest within psychology and hold roles in counseling, teaching, or research.
No matter what type of psychology degree you choose to pursue, you should be able to find an accredited program either at a college or university near you or through an online program. Once you have completed your degree, you will be prepared to begin your career helping others understand their own minds and behavior.
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Online Psychology Education in Alabama
Psychologists are professionals who study the human mind and behavior. They can use their knowledge to help people understand themselves and others, and to improve mental health. Psychologists can find work in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, businesses, and private practices. They often work with people who have mental health problems, but they also work with healthy individuals to help them achieve their goals.
Psychologists typically need a doctoral degree in psychology, but some jobs may only require a master’s degree, such as most counseling roles. Psychologists and counselors alike must be licensed in all states. Some psychologists choose to specialize in a particular area of psychology, such as child psychology or forensic psychology.
Online Associates (AS)
Getting an associate degree in psychology can be the first step toward a number of careers. A two-year degree can qualify students for entry-level jobs in the mental health field and for social service assistant positions. In fact, psychiatric aides and technicians can expect job growth rates that are faster than average for all professions.
Psychology is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on improving people's mental health and the development of positive behaviors. Professionals in the field are required to have a deep understanding of people and a honed ability to solve problems. Psychology is a field that uses specific social science methodologies. Professionals in the field use research methods such as observation, measurement and experimentation to understand human behavior.
Unfortunately, many roles in this field require more education than an associate degree provides, so, while this degree may be an excellent option for those looking to decide if psychology is right for them, it won’t provide you with many options of career within the psychology field itself.
National Rankings -top 25 online associate psychology programsOnline Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's degree in psychology can open the door to many different career opportunities, including those outside the realm of psychology. With a bachelor's degree in psychology, you can work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools, businesses, and private practices. You can also specialize in a particular area of psychology, such as child psychology or forensic psychology. However, it’s important to note that the roles open for those completing a bachelor’s in psychology would not include those as counselors (except substance abuse counselors) or psychologists.
During your studies at this level, you are likely to take classes on topics like human development, psychopathology, research methods, and statistics. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in internships and field placements. After completing your degree, you'll be prepared to take the next step in your career. If you choose to find work outside the field of psychology, you can move into editing, human resources, social work, marketing, or any career that requires or rewards knowledge of human behavior. Or, you will be ready to earn a master’s degree, which can let you teach at lower levels, work as a counselor in a wide variety of roles and specialties, and prepares you for a doctorate if you choose to earn one.
National Rankings - top 25 online bachelors psychology programsOnline Masters (MS, MA or MC)
A master's degree in psychology can open the door to different types of career paths for those in the field of psychology or counseling. With a master's degree in psychology, you can work as a clinical psychologist, counseling psychologist, research psychologist, university professor, or other roles in the field.
If you're interested in working as a clinical psychologist, you'll need to complete an internship and pass a licensure exam. Counseling psychologists typically also need to complete a practicum under an already licensed counselor before they can begin working on their own. Research psychologists usually don't need any additional training beyond their master's degree.
University professors typically need to have a doctorate in psychology, but some positions may be available for those with just a master's degree. Teaching at the college level requires excellent communication and organizational skills.
National Rankings - top 25 online masters psychology programsOnline PhD (PhD)
A PhD in psychology is an essential credential for a career at the highest levels of psychology. It is the highest academic degree available in the field and indicates a mastery of the subject matter. A PhD also qualifies one to teach at the college level and to conduct research.
There are many universities that offer PhD programs in psychology, and the coursework required varies depending on the specific program. However, all PhD programs require completion of a doctoral dissertation, which is an original research project conducted by the student.
A PhD in psychology can open up many doors to exciting careers in psychology. With this credential, you will be able to work as a psychologist in a variety of settings and will also be qualified to teach at the collegiate level and to conduct psychological research.
Read our psychology resources and scholarships guide Read our financial aid and FAFSA guideOnline Certifications
Psychology certifications and licenses are required in order to practice psychology. There are many different types of psychology certifications, each with their own requirements. The most common type of certification is the Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP). To be licensed as an LCP, one must have a doctorate in psychology from an accredited institution, complete an internship, and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Other common certifications include the Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), Certified School Psychologist (CSP), and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Each of these certifications has different requirements, but all require at least a master's degree in psychology from an accredited institution.
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Become a Psychologist in Alabama
Psychology is the study of behavior and mental processes. It covers a wide range of topics, from child development to abnormal psychology. If you're interested in pursuing a career in psychology, there are a few steps you can take to get started.
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Step 1: Get a bachelor's degree in psychology
Many students are interested in pursuing a degree in psychology. A bachelor's degree in psychology can be an excellent way to learn about human behavior and mental processes. There are many different types of psychology programs available, so it’s important to do some research to find the right one for you. A bachelor's degree in psychology will typically take four years to complete and, during your studies, you will take courses in a variety of topics including research methods, psychopathology, and social psychology. You will also have the opportunity to participate in internships and field placements. Upon completing a bachelor's degree in psychology, you will be prepared for a career in a number of different roles, though most psychology fields require more education.
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Step 2: Consider getting a master's degree or PhD in psychology
After your bachelor’s, you should be considering getting an advanced degree in psychology; you may be wondering if you should get a master's degree or PhD. Here's what you need to know about each type of degree. A master's degree in psychology is a good choice if you want to work as a counselor or therapist. With a master's degree, you'll be able to work in many different settings including private practices, hospitals, and schools. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of psychology, such as clinical psychology or counseling psychology. A PhD in psychology is the best choice if you want to pursue a career in research or teaching at the college level. With a PhD, you'll be prepared to conduct original research and contribute to the body of knowledge in psychology.
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Step 3: Complete an internship or practicum
An internship or practicum is an important step in completing your psychology degree. By completing an internship, you will gain valuable experience in the field of psychology and be able to earn full licensure in the field or specialty of your choice. This experience can help you to better understand the theory behind the practice of psychology and give you the opportunity to apply what you have learned in the classroom to real-world settings. By completing an internship or practicum, you will be better prepared for a career in psychology.
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Step 4: Get licensed as a psychologist
If you want to become a psychologist, you will need to be licensed in the state where you plan to practice. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but all states require psychologists to have a doctorate in psychology. In addition to completing an accredited doctoral program, most states require psychologists to complete an internship and pass a professional exam. Some states also require psychologists to complete continuing education courses every few years in order to maintain their license. If you are interested in becoming a psychologist, contact your state's licensing board to find out the specific requirements for licensure in your state.
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What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Psychology?
A bachelor's degree in psychology can lead to a number of different career paths. With further education, a psychologist could work in a clinical setting, helping people to overcome mental health disorders. Or they could use their knowledge of human behavior to work in marketing or human resources. Some psychologists also choose to go into research. By studying the way people think and behave, they can help to improve our understanding of the human mind. This research can then be used to develop new treatments for mental illness or to create educational programs that help people to better understand themselves and others.
However, there are also those who choose to leverage their bachelor’s degree to get straight into the work force without earning more education. A bachelor’s degree in any field can help you get started in the work force, though it may take you longer to gain promotions and higher pay without a degree in your particular field or industry. No matter what path you choose, a bachelor's degree in psychology can give you the tools you need to make a difference in the lives of others.
Potential Careers for Psychology Graduates
- Career Counselor:
A career counselor is responsible for providing guidance and advice to individuals seeking career advice, planning, and development.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field
- Master’s degree in Career Counseling preferred
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Alabama is $54,950
- Clinical Therapist:
A clinical therapist provides mental health services to individuals with mental, emotional, and behavioral problems. They offer therapeutic interventions to assist clients in managing their mental health and overall well-being.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field
- Licensed or certified by the applicable state board of licensure/certification
- 2+ years of experience providing clinical therapy
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in the US in 2021 was $99,640
- The mean annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama is $84,360
- Psychologist:
A psychologist is responsible for providing professional mental health care services to individuals and groups. This includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of psychological issues.
Necessary Requirements:
- Doctoral degree in psychology or related field
- Licensure as a psychologist in the state where practicing
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of psychological principles, theories, and techniques
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for psychologists in the US in 2021 was $81,040
- The mean annual wage for psychologists (all other) in Alabama is $96,660 and clinical and counseling psychologists earn $84,360
- Marriage and Family Counselor:
Marriage and family counselors provide therapeutic guidance and support to individuals, couples, and families in order to identify and address issues that may be impacting their relationships.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or related field
- Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist or equivalent required
- Experience working with couples, families, or individuals
- Experience working with couples, families, or individuals
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for marriage and family therapists in the US in 2021 was $49,880
- The mean annual wage for marriage and family therapists in Alabama is $46,220
- Social Worker:
A social work assistant provides support to a team of social workers by performing administrative tasks and providing direct client services.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field
- Knowledge of principles and practices of social work
- Excellent interpersonal skills, problem solving skills, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for social workers in the US in 2021 was $50,390
- The mean annual wage for child, family, and school social workers in Alabama is $45,200 and mental health and substance abuse workers earn $36,680
- Human Resource Specialist/Manager:
A human resource specialist is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the human resources department. They are accountable for overseeing hiring, training, and employee relations activities.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field
- Proven experience as a Human Resource Specialist or similar role
- Knowledge of labor laws and HR best practices
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Proficiency in relevant HR software (e.g. HRIS)
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for human resources specialists in the US in 2021 was $62,290
- The mean annual wage for human resources specialists in Alabama is $61,860
- Psychology Professor (Post-Secondary):
A psychology professor (post-secondary) is responsible for teaching psychology courses in a post-secondary environment, such as a college or university. This includes developing and delivering lectures, leading discussions, and facilitating learning activities.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Psychology or related field
- Previous teaching experience in a post-secondary setting
- Knowledge of current trends in psychology research
- Excellent communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for psychology teachers (postsecondary) in the US in 2021 was $88,390
- The mean annual wage for psychology teachers (postsecondary) in Alabama is $85,170
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