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What is Psychology?
When it comes to studying the human mind, there are few things that can help you more than a good psychology education. The field of psychology is constantly evolving, and those who have a degree in the field will be able to keep up with the latest findings and techniques. There are many different colleges and universities all over the country that offer degrees in psychology, so it can be tricky to figure out which one is right for you.
The best way to find a good fit is to do some research on the different schools and programs that are available. Consider your budget, location, and what kinds of courses you are interested in. There are many different specialties within psychology, so you should find a program that offers courses in your area of interest. Of course, you aren’t likely to gain much specialization until you reach a master’s degree level, so you might also want to make sure that your degree will allow you an easy transfer.
In the state of New Jersey, there are many colleges and universities that offer psychology degrees at all levels. Students can pursue an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or even a doctoral degree in psychology without ever leaving the state. Students should be able to find the perfect program to suit their interests and career goals. There are also many opportunities for internships and research experiences available at New Jersey schools.
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Psychology Education in New Jersey
A psychologist, counselor, or other psychology professional is a person who studies human behavior and how it is influenced by social pressures and environmental factors. They use their knowledge of human behavior to help people understand and manage their own behavior if they are working as a counselor. In clinical practice, psychologists diagnose and treat mental health conditions, as well as assist individuals and their families in dealing with emerging mental health disorders. They may also work with specific populations or disorders, such as children or adolescents or depression and anxiety.
Among the many types of psychology careers, a clinical psychologist requires a doctorate degree. A school psychologist also must complete an internship, which may last one or two years. No matter where you plan to end up, a degree in psychology is a good first step, and there are many online and on-campus programs available. In addition to the basic requirements for each position, psychology programs also offer the option to customize a program to suit your needs.
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Online Associate Degree in Psychology (AS)
As the world progresses, more and more people are finding the need to get an education in order to keep up with the changing times. With this increase in demand for education comes a rise in opportunities for people to get their degrees online. Psychology is one of the many fields that have seen a growth in online educational opportunities.
The field of psychology can be divided into three main branches: clinical, counseling, and research. An associate degree in psychology will provide you with a strong foundation that can lead to a degree in any of these branches. These degrees can be completed in as little as two years, making it an excellent option for students who want to start working on their career sooner rather than later.
However, it’s good to know ahead of time that you aren’t likely to be able to start working in counseling or psychology after earning only an associate degree. Most jobs require that you have a master’s degree to work with patients or clients, and even those that do not require a master’s will give preference to graduates with a bachelor’s degree. But completing any degree will give you better access to general employment and, if you ensure that your associate degree is accredited, it can provide an inexpensive way to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (BS)
Psychology is a fascinating field of study that explores the workings of the human mind. A bachelor's degree in psychology can prepare you for a career in this exciting field and many others. If you are interested in pursuing a career in psychology, an online bachelor's degree program may be the perfect option for you. An online program can allow you to learn at your own pace and fit your studies into your busy schedule, especially if you’ve already earned an associate degree and found work somewhere to offset the cost of your studies.
A bachelor's degree in psychology can help you obtain a successful career as a psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. You will learn about human behavior and how to help people deal with mental health issues. You will also gain experience conducting research and writing papers on psychology topics. An online bachelor's degree program should take the same amount of time as an in-person degree, around four years, unless you have already completed an associate degree, in which case you may only need around two years to get the rest of your credits completed.
Online Master’s Degree in Psychology (MA)
An online master's degree in psychology can be extremely beneficial way to prepare for your career’s future. It can allow you to qualify for a better job, earn more money, and prepare you for full licensure as a counselor, researcher, teacher, and more. However, before you choose a program, you should consider your specific career goals and how well it will fit into them. Online programs can take less time to complete than traditional on-campus programs, but if you must attend part-time then it will likely take longer than you expect. However, if you choose a program that allows you to attend at your own pace and make a focused effort to complete your degree, you could complete a master's program in around 18 to 24 months, which will allow you to start gaining the experience needed for further licensure or begin your doctoral studies earlier than you might otherwise.
Online master's programs in psychology typically require 36 credits of non-thesis coursework, as well as a comprehensive examination. Students can focus on a specific topic they are passionate about by taking elective courses. There are also similar options for financing an online master's program as there are for undergraduate programs.
Online PhD in Psychology (PhD)
Obtaining your PhD in psychology can be a very rewarding experience, but it can also be quite challenging. That’s just part of why it’s important to do your research before selecting an online or in-person PhD program in psychology. There are many different programs to choose from, and each one has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
Some programs allow you to specialize in a particular area of psychology, while others provide more general training. You might also want to consider the cost of the program and the availability of financial aid. One of the best ways to determine which program is right for you is to speak with current students and faculty members. They can tell you what they like and don't like about the program, and they can give you a realistic idea of what it takes to complete the degree. If you don’t have the option of reaching out to alumni, consider finding student reviews for the programs you are considering.
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Online Psychology Certifications
Online psychology certifications are an excellent option for those who want to advance their career in the field. These programs give students and professionals the opportunity to improve their existing skills and apply them to a variety of fields or points of interest and focus, such as substance abuse counseling.
Many college and universities offer programs focused on certifications in psychology. There are hundreds of schools offering these programs, and more are appearing daily. However, there are many concerns about the quality of online options when it comes to these programs, and some students may have a lingering concern about whether or not they will meet expectations. However, many online psychology programs adhere to the same rigorous curriculum as their campus counterparts, and some are priced considerably lower.
Become a Psychologist in New Jersey
In order to become a psychology professional in New Jersey, there are a few steps that must be followed.
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Step 1: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology
A bachelor's degree in psychology can prepare students for a career in many different areas of the field. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those who wish to pursue a graduate degree in psychology or a related field, which is required for most forms of licensure. Psychology courses cover topics such as human development, psychological disorders, and research methods. In addition to coursework, students gain practical experience through internships and practicum placements.
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Step 2: Obtain a graduate degree in psychology
Obtaining a graduate degree in psychology can be a great way to further your education and career, especially if you are looking for licensure in marriage and family counseling, mental health counseling, and other specialties. A graduate degree can lead to new job opportunities and higher salaries. The field of psychology is growing, making it a great choice for those interested in a career in a helping profession. There are many different specialties within psychology, so you can find the program that fits your interests and goals.
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Step 3: Complete an internship and supervised experience
Most students who are nearing the end of their academic careers find that they need to complete an internship and supervised experience if they want to find a job in their desired field. Internships are a way to gain real-world experience in a professional setting, and supervised experience can give you the opportunity to learn from someone with more experience than you, as well as being a requirement for licensure in most counseling/psychology fields. There are many different types of internships and supervised experiences available, so it's important to do your research and find one that will be the best fit for you.
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Step 4: Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology or Whichever Exam Needed in Your Field
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a national examination that is required for those who wish to become licensed psychologists. The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions that cover eight content domains: biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases of behavior, social and cultural bases of behavior, individual differences, assessment and diagnosis, interventions and treatments, research methods and statistics, and professional ethics. In order to pass the EPPP, test-takers must achieve a score of 500 or higher. The EPPP is offered three times a year at testing centers across the United States. Other exams might be needed if you choose to focus on a different type of counseling, such as school counseling or clinical social work, and you should check with the state licensing board before or during your master’s program to ensure that you are prepared for whatever examination and experience is needed.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Psychology?
As a graduate of psychology, you'll have a variety of options available to you. As a mental health counselor, for example, you could help clients deal with addictions and eating disorders. You might work in group sessions and utilize counseling methods like talk therapy and 12-step programs. You might also work in a community setting as a social worker, helping people cope with stress and problems they encounter without a support network.
A bachelor's degree in psychology is applicable to many different areas and disciplines, even many outside of psychology and counseling. You'll be well-prepared to work in many fields. Many graduates work in the fields of sales, middle management, social work, and labor-relations or HR. If you choose to work in counseling or therapy, most jobs require a graduate degree in psychology.
Potential Careers for Psychology Graduates
- Community Service Manager:
A community service manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and coordinating community service projects and programs. They will work with community partners to identify needs and develop programs that address those needs. They may also be responsible for recruiting and training volunteers, as well as managing volunteer hours.
Necessary Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, or a related field
- At least three years of experience working in the nonprofit sector
- Strong leadership and organizational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for social and community service managers in the US in 2021 was $74,000
- The mean annual wage for social and community service managers in New Jersey is $92,230
- Teacher/Professor:
A professor is a highly educated and experienced individual who teaches students at a college or university. Professors typically have a PhD or master’s degree in their field and they are experts in their area of study. Professors typically teach courses, lead seminars, and conduct research. They may also advise students and write textbooks.
Necessary Requirements:
- PhD or other terminal degree in field of expertise
- Significant experience in field of expertise
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for psychology postsecondary teachers in the US in 2021 was $77,860, sociology teachers earned $77,980, and those who taught social work earned $71,010
- The mean annual wage for postsecondary teachers who teach psychology is $96,000, sociology teachers earn $93,460, and those who teach social work earn $83,050
- Psychiatrist:
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Psychiatrists are trained to understand the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to mental illness.
Necessary Requirements:
- Must be a licensed medical doctor
- Must have completed 4 years of medical school and 4 years of residency training in psychiatry
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for psychiatrists in the US in 2021 was $208,000+
- The mean annual wage for psychiatrists in New Jersey is $323,820
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- Residential Counselor:
A residential counselor will be responsible for providing direct care and support to residents in a group home setting. This may include managing daily activities, providing emotional support, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, and more.
Necessary Requirements:
- Ability to work with individuals with varying needs and abilities
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience working in a residential setting preferred
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520 and counselors (all other) earned $45,160
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New Jersey is $63,430 and counselors (all other) earn $82,020
- Group Counselor:
A group counselor will provide direct counseling and therapy services to clients in a group setting. They will create and implement treatment plans, facilitate group sessions, and provide individual counseling as needed and they will also collaborate with other members of the treatment team to ensure that each client receives the best possible care.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in counseling or a related field
- Licensed as a professional counselor in the state of practice
- Experience working with clients in a group setting
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for counselors (all other) in the US in 2021 was $76,780 and clinical and counseling psychologists in earned $82,510
- The mean annual wage for counselors, all other in New Jersey is $82,020 and clinical and counseling psychologists earn $143,150
- Mental Health Counselor:
A mental health counselor provides counseling and support to individuals with mental health conditions. They work with clients to help them manage their symptoms, understand their diagnosis, and develop coping and problem-solving skills. Mental health counselors also provide education and support to families and loved ones.
Necessary Requirements:
- A master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field<
- A state license to practice mental health counseling
- Experience working with clients with mental health conditions
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in New Jersey is $63,430
- Administrative Service Manager:
An administrative service manager is responsible for the overall administration of the organization. This includes, but is not limited to, human resources, finance, information technology, and facilities. This may include medical and health services for mental health organizations.
Necessary Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field
- At least 5 years of experience in an administrative role
- Strong leadership and management skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for administrative services managers in the US in 2021 was $99,290
- The mean annual wage for administrative services managers in New Jersey is $141,450
- School/Education Psychologist/School Counselor:
A school or education psychologist will work with students, teachers, and families to address psychological and educational issues within the school setting. They will provide guidance and support to students, help identify learning and behavioral difficulties, and develop interventions to address these issues. They will also collaborate with teachers to create positive learning environments and promote student success.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in psychology or education
- Experience working in a school setting
- Knowledge of child development and learning processes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $63,510. Child, family, and school social workers earned $49,150 and school psychologists earned $78,780
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in New Jersey is $76,040. Child, family, and school social workers earned $75,410 and school psychologists earned $88,570
- Family and Marriage Therapist:
The role of a family and marriage therapist is to help families and couples improve their relationships. They may work with individuals, couples, or families. They will help identify the strengths and weaknesses in relationships and work to improve communication and conflict resolution skills.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in counseling or a related field
- Licensed in the state in which they practice
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 New Jersey is $81,330