Online Psychology Degree

Psychology Degree Overview

Psychology is the study of the human mind and human behavior. Psychologists focus on helping others become mentally healthy and live happier lives. Those who study this field receive training in counseling, human development, research, statistics, and more.

Listed at the bottom of this page are colleges and universities that offer online degrees, certificates, and diplomas in psychology. You can also explore various study areas of psychology below.

Psychology Career Outlook

Career Growth

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for psychologists will grow 14 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average growth rate for al occupations. Those who earn a doctorate degree in a specialty will have the best job prospects. Demand for counseling is expected to grow as more people seek help for their problems, including the physical and mental changes that come as people age. School psychologists have the highest projected growth rate, likely because educators are recognizing the connection between mental health and academic success.

Projected Job Growth for Psychologists, 2016 to 2026

• Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists: 14%
• Psychologists, total: 14%
• Industrial-organizational psychologists: 8%
• All other psychologists: 11%

Psychology Salary Information

The salary for a psychology profession will vary by a number of factors, including location, experience, education, industry, and specialty. The median annual salary for all psychologists in May 2017 was $77,030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest earning psychologists in 2017 worked for the government, earning an average of $94,910.



The following chart outlines the average annual psychologist salary by industry as of May 2017:

Median Psychologist Salary, 2017

• Government: $94,910
• Hospitals: $83,910
• Healthcare services: $77,030
• Elementary and secondary schools: $74,470

Psychology Degree Required Education

Most practicing psychologists will need an advanced degree—at least a master’s degree—to become a practicing therapist. This will typically involve original research and writing a dissertation, alongside practical experience and training. Most states also require psychologists to receive a license in order to practice. There are multiple specialties in the field of psychology, and those who go to extra school to become a specialist are most likely to get jobs.

Here are some courses you will likely take as a psychology major in college:

• Human development
• Social sciences
• Sociology
• Psychology Theory
• Research methods of psychology
• Humanities
• Communications, Counseling
• Neurology Mental Processes

Sources

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm