Online Master’s in Psychology

Psychology is the study of human mind and the way it impacts people and their behavior in various situations; as a result, it can be useful in many career choices. When a student enrolls in a psychology graduate program, he or she is embarking on an academic journey that will ultimately yield a large number of diverse career path possibilities.

A psychology master's degree can open up new options that are often not available to those who earn a bachelor's degree in psychology. With a master's, the graduate's job choices will extend beyond a hospital or clinic setting to include more specialized roles in a wide range of professional settings.

Why a Master's Degree in Psychology?

A master’s degree in psychology is often required to give the student the opportunities needed to get their career off the ground. It allows them the opportunity to work in many clinical settings under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. By choosing a psychology graduate program, they can have the opportunity to work in fields like healthcare, human resources, or specialized counseling.

Inside a Psychology Master's Degree Program

A master’s in psychology program can vary from one to three years, depending on the focus that is selected. Most programs require the student to have introductory psychology and statistics courses on his or her undergraduate transcript.

Students will be required to take several core courses along with electives courses that are designed for the specific area of interest. They must often take some type of research class for the core requirements, along with applied statistics. They will also have to take courses that cover developmental psychology, social, and emotional development, as well as cognitive psychology. Family and group psychology. clinical and social work, addiction studies, and neuropsychology are some of the elective goals that can be taken (based on the student’s career goals).

What's Next for Psychology Master's Degree Holders?

A master’s in psychology allows the graduate to either pursue further education or begin looking for employment. They can begin studying for a doctorate, which will open even more doors for them. Depending on the focus of the degree, students can find a career in research at a university or other facility. They also have the opportunity to practice psychotherapy and assessments under the guidance of a licensed psychologist.

Median salary for a graduate with a master’s in psychology is around $40,000 to $70,000 depending on which career they choose, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Total job growth rate for all psychologists from 2014 to 2024 is projected to be 19%, though the growth in certain sub-sectors (such as industrial-organizational psychology) is projected to be much greater.