There are many legitimate and personal reasons why getting a Master’s in Psychology is a good idea. A master’s degree is one of the basic requirements for many clinical, technical, managerial and client administration positions. The American Psychological Association (APA) offers an overview of the pros and cons of graduate schools for psychologists.
A Great Career Outlook
The expected employment growth of psychology related positions is an impressive 19 percent. The ever-growing need for qualified psychologists continues to increase, so the career prospects in the future will be even better. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average hourly wage for a psychologist is approximately $45 per hour and $93,000 per year. The top ten percent of psychologists will earn around $60 per hour, or $124,000 per year. The industries that pay the highest include hospitals, universities, federal agencies, mental health services, health care organizations and substance abuse centers. The easiest career path for psychologists who obtain a master’s degree is to teach at college while researching projects and working on their doctoral degree.
Personal Benefits
A master’s degree in a field of psychology will always offer excellent benefits for the individual. First of all, psychologists learn how to help themselves and others. A master’s degree in psychology reveals the intricacies of human thinking and nuances of human behavior. This knowledge can often be applied to the psychologist’s own life and environment. Their scientific knowledge and sound advice may make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Many psychologists enjoy working with struggling clients because they treat illnesses, overcome obstacles, bring families back together and help the disadvantaged get back on their feet. Extroverted psychologists will enjoy always working in social settings with a rich variety of people. Being about to think critically and creatively, regardless of the situation, will help at any job and in any relationship.
Self-Employment Opportunities
Many psychologists are now getting a master’s degree in order to become their own bosses. These psychologists practice right out of their homes. This saves on taxes, reduces commute time and increases career satisfaction. These psychologists are usually therapists who work one-on-one with clients and couples. They can provide consultative advice for schools, colleges, corporations and governmental organizations. For example, various government offices often hire psychologists with master’s degrees to conduct research, interview people or providing psychological services. Other government positions that self-employed psychologists may qualify for include parole officer, employment counselor, human resources analyst and social services manager. The mental health field may include jobs like behavioral counselor, vocational rehabilitation counselor and drug and alcohol specialist. Some psychologists may find work as therapists, social workers, school advocates and psychiatric technicians.
The field of psychology may be divided into many different sub-specialties that offer unique career tracks. For instance, a master’s in clinical psychology will allow the graduate to provide limited psychotherapy and psychological assessments under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. A master’s in applied psychology is best for those who want to work in forensic, experimental or industrial-organizational psychology. Either way, a Master’s in Psychology is an excellent academic investment.
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