What Can I Do With a Psychology Degree?

Psychology has become one of the most popular majors for undergraduate studies. At UT, the mission of the Department of Psychology is to enable students to think scientifically about human behavior, appreciate the diversity of behavior and experience, and pursue a variety of post-graduate career options. Those majoring in psychology receive curricular and extracurricular experiences that meet or exceed all educational standards for undergraduates set by the American Psychological Association, and include opportunities to participate in research.

Careers in psychology are diverse, with many different specialty areas to choose from. A master’s or doctoral degree, and often a license (e.g., clinical, counseling and school psychology), are required of most psychologists.

Examples of graduate schools UT psychology graduates have attended include:

• Columbia University (social-organizational psychology)
• University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (Clinical Psychology)
• Florida State University (Social Work)
• University of Miami (Mental Health Counseling)
• The University of Rhode Island (behavioral science)
• Florida Institute of Technology (biological sciences)
• Stetson University College of Law (J.D.)
• Oklahoma State University (human development and family science)

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, job growth for psychologists is expected to grow by 14% through the year 2026 — faster than the average growth rate predicted for other occupations. Average psychologist salaries can vary greatly based on company, location, industry, experience and benefits. Specific career opportunities include:

• opportunities in nonprofit organizations
• private practice in counseling/clinical psychology
• case management
• human resources
• career counseling

Thinking About Grad School?

Those students wishing to pursue a degree beyond the undergraduate level, for instance in either clinical or research oriented programs, will need to maintain a high GPA (3.5 or better), and it is advisable to gain some research and/or internship experience to be competitive for the most desirable programs.