Masters Degree in Psychology

A career in psychology offers several versatile advantages beneficial within the profession and in related fields also. Psychology is the study of the way the mind works and the various patterns of behavior related to mental processes. Thus, a good understanding of psychological theories and tenets tends to broaden perspectives and enhance communication skills. Perhaps the best thing about a career in psychology is the vast number of diverse disciplines within the field.

Masters Degree in Psychology – Facts

Over 100 different subfields exist within the field of psychology, including school psychology, forensic psychology and clinical psychology. Master's degree programs in psychology, which last at least two years, allow for specialization within a particular field. Few schools offer terminal Master's degrees. Instead, most programs offered are co-terminal. These programs combine a BA, BS or Ph.D degree in psychology with master´s level coursework.

Tops Schools for a Psychology Masters Degree

Top master´s degree programs exist both online as well as at traditional college and universities. According to the U.S. News and World Reports, the top five Masters degree programs are at Stanford, University of California – Berkley, Harvard, University of California – Los Angeles and the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor. Popular online programs can be found at the University of Phoenix and the Adler School of Professional Psychology.

Work Possible with a Masters Degree in Psychology

Though a Ph.D is required in order to become a licensed psychologist, career opportunities also exist for those who graduate at the Masters level. Many Masters degree holders find work as social workers, counselors, psychological assistants, researchers and data analysts. Many of these jobs exist within the government or at universities, but may also be found in the private sector.

The most popular work possible with a Masters degree in psychology is school and industrial psychology work. School psychology involves counseling students in high schools, college and universities as well as at disciplinary centers for school-aged children. Industrial or organizational psychology deals with employee behavior and improving group dynamics in the workplace. These two professions are increasingly in high demand throughout the U.S.

Salary and Outlook in Psychology

Opportunities in psychology are expected to grow over the next decade, especially for those holding doctorate degrees. For those holding a Masters Degree in psychology, certain disciplines are expected to be in higher demand than others. One such subfield is school psychology which is likely to see an increase in jobs due to the rising incidence of bullying and student behavioral issues. Another popular field will be industrial or organizational psychology as more corporations address personal and group development issues such as employee well-being and productivity.

When it comes to salary, clinical, counseling and school psychologists are expected to earn a median salary of $66,040 per year. Industrial-organizational psychologists can expect a slightly higher wage of $83,260 per year. All other psychologists will earn an average $84,220 per year. Overall, a master's degree in psychology is best for those looking forward to careers in school and industrial-organizational psychology. This is a challenging but rewarding career choice for those who are ambitious and dedicated.