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Are you interested in how the mind works...and how it impacts our behavior?

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Welcome to the wonderful world of psychology!

Why are some people natural leaders? Why do we dream? The most famous of them all, is it nature or nurture? Flaticon Icon

Psychology, the study of the mind and behavior, has provided answers to these questions and more since the 1800's.

It's a fascinating field with many subfields to explore, from cognitive development to more recently emerging fields like psychology in user experience design.

Check out some of the psychologists who have made major contributions to the field:

Sigmund Freud

His theory of the unconscious and the concepts of id, ego, and superego revolutionized psychology.

Ivan Pavlov

Renowned for his pioneering work in classical conditioning.

Wolfgang Köhler

Known for his pioneering work in Gestalt psychology. Renowned for groundbreaking research on problem-solving in apes.

Carl Jung

 Founded analytical psychology and introduced concepts such as the collective unconscious, archetypes, and the process of individuation.

Did you know?

Women have been making big contributions to the field. Check out these influential woman in psychology!

Why study psychology?

"Why not study psychology?" is the better question! Check these reasons out, as detailed by Very Well Mind:

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You can learn more about who we are as individuals, including our own development, personality, thoughts, and behaviors.

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Psychology can provide a basis for a better understanding of other people.

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Psychology can make a person a better communicator, a better leader, and even a better friend. 

You'll enjoy this field if...

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  • You enjoy working with people.

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  • You have a desire to help others.

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  • You're intrigued by how we think.

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  • You want career opportunities!

Quiz

What are some characteristics of a person who would do well in the field of psychology? Select all that apply:

What education do I need?

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Learn about your degree options below!

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

  • 4 year degree

  • General studies

Think entry-level job in the field of social work.

Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.S.)

  • 2-3 years beyond a bachelor degree

  • Specialized studies

Think entry-level job in the field of mental health.

Ph.D

  • 4-7 years beyond a bachelor degree

  • Focused on research

Think professor of psychology.

Psy.D

  • 4-7 years beyond a bachelor degree

  • Focused on clinical work

Think licensed clinical psychologist.

What will I learn?

Hamish Blake points down.

Theoretical Frameworks

Learn theories fundamental to the field of psychology. Get a head start!

Research Methods

Learn various research methods that are used to study human behavior, cognition, and emotions.

Critical Thinking

Psychology courses will challenge you to think critically. Studying and applying theories and research methods will help to strengthen your critical thinking skills.

Writing

You'll sharpen your writing skills with the extensive writing in the program.

Learn more about the type of writing you'll do.

Did you know?

Psychologists use the American Psychological Association (APA) format for publications. This will be used heavily in your program. Get a head start with APA writing format!

How do I succeed in school?

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Create

  • A study schedule.

  • Short-term and long-term goals.

  • A journal for self-reflection.

  • Time for self-care!

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Seek

  • Guidance from alumni and professionals in your field of study.

  • Mentor(s) you can build a long-term relationship with.

  • Opportunities to give back to others as your confidence grows.

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Develop

  • Confidence by participating in school activities.

  • Leadership skills by volunteering for projects at school or work.

  • Ways to get out of your comfort zone!

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Pivot

  • Be ok with change. We grow, we change.

  • Be ok with taking a pause. If you need it, do it!

  • Give yourself grace! You deserve it.

Did you know?

You can find many useful apps that will help you get and stay organized. Use search terms like "planner" or "calendar" to find them. Check out this review of apps.

Where can I work?

A degree in psychology can be applied to MANY fields!

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The most common primary area of specialty among licensed psychologists is clinical psychology (44%).

According to the American Psychological Association, clinical psychologists "provide clinical or counseling services [to] assess and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders."

Not interested in the traditional clinical psychology route? There are many interesting career paths you can take! Check out these examples from performance psychology:

A blue and white race car on race track.

Jack Stark, PhD

  • Performance psychologist for stock car racers

Stark uses science to help drivers find their 'on' switch. He applies his research in human behavior and his background in clinical psychology to motivate drivers to focus on the task at hand. 

 

Acrobats in motion during performance.Image by Sergey Romanenko via Pixels

Madeleine Hallé, PhD

  • circus psychologist

As senior performance psychologist for Cirque du Soleil, Hallé helps the company's 1,300-plus artists perform nearly impossible feats at about two dozen different shows around the world.

Did you know?

There are many other subfields to explore! Check out the APA Psychology website to see what piques your interest.

What's my earning potential and job outlook?

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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics:

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  • 2023 median pay was $92,740 per year.

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  • The number of psychologist jobs in 2022 was 196,000.

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  • The job outlook until 2032 is projected to increase by 6% (faster than average).

Take Action

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Did you know?

American Psychological Association is a wonderful resource for research, networking, and conference opportunities!

License:

This Byte has been authored by

CC

Carla Cervantes

Onsite Trainer

BS Business

English

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