Your Career Prospects

orange and yellow smoke illustration

In a nutshell, psychology is the study of the human mind and behaviour.

If you are curious about how the human mind works and why humans act in a certain way, then pursuing a degree in psychology is a perfect choice for you!

But, what are the career options available to you upon graduation?

The common career path would be to gain a PhD in the field and become a psychologist.

If you prefer not to do that, there are still many other careers to pursue. Here are some potential career pathways worth considering. 

Clinical Psychologist 

As a clinical psychologist, you will assess, diagnose and treat those experiencing mental health illnesses.

Predominantly working at hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practice, clinical psychologists may specialise in treating certain disorders or working with certain populations.

If you’d like to help individuals suffering from mental health issues, a career in clinical psychology is best suited for you.
 

human anatomy model

Career Counselor

A career counselor helps students and job seekers explore their potential for a fulfilling career.

As a career counselor, you will interact with a diverse group of people and assist them with conducting self-assessments, finding suitable careers and providing valuable insights for those making a career move.

Psychology graduates are suited for this career as they have a sound knowledge of behavioural studies which is vital to the career discovery process.

image

Child Developmental Specialist

As a child developmental specialist, your goal is to assess a child’s developmental needs, deficiencies and design therapy plans for their individual needs.

Other duties include counselling for parents and setting up support groups for parents and caregivers.

Such specialists begin with a degree in psychology and later specialise in child-related studies such as early childhood education or developmental psychology.

man and woman sitting on chairs

Forensic Psychologist

Many crime-based dramas on TV and Hollywood in general, tend to cast a spotlight on this fascinating career.

As a forensic psychologist, you would be exposed to the workings of the legal system as well as the psychological aspects of crime. Many forensic psychologists are often summoned to court as expert witnesses in criminal trials, civil lawsuits and even insurance disputes.

image

Community Service Manager

Social work and community service are areas of interest for many psychology graduates. Such professionals can find career opportunities in social service sectors such as non-governmental organisations and government agencies.

As a community service or social service manager, you would be involved in developing programmes to benefit a particular segment of society, which includes liaising with relevant stakeholders.

Other duties include community support, counselling and case management services.
 

gray concrete building during daytime

Human Resource Director

Human Resource Directors oversee hiring and employee relations within every department of a company. They are the minds behind recruitment policies, ethical behavioural rules and overall employee management.

The study of psychology involves delving into the intricacies of the human mind, emotions and behaviours.

This understanding enables human resource directors to better understand employees, how they function and the reasons behind their actions, giving way to effective human resource policies. 

people sitting near table with laptop computer

Sports Psychologist

As a sports psychologist, you are essentially an emotional coach for athletes, focusing on their psychological wellbeing. You will assist athletes in coping with stress and overcoming performance anxiety. Other duties include counselling athletes in dealing with the emotional struggles which stem from injuries or due to a lack of motivation.


 

image

There you have it! Your background in psychology paves the way for a flexible and versatile career pathway.

Your mobility across industries is enhanced, increasing your chances of employability.

This deep understanding of human psychology and its workings is incredibly useful in any field of work.