What Can You Do with a Master’s in Psychology?

Although it's natural to think of a master's degree in psychology as an avenue for primarily clinical roles, the degree offers a wide range of career paths across multiple professional domains. Moreover, it can prepare you for counseling services or pursue other psychology jobs where you don't have to interact with clients. From human resources to research and education, the applicability of this credential knows no bounds.

In this blog, we'll explore what you can do with a master’s degree, exploring the myriad career opportunities that await you after graduation. We'll also delve into the salaries and job outlook of various professional fields within psychology. 

Top 9 Jobs With a Masters in Psychology

Whether you're a seasoned psychologist looking to change careers or an aspiring psychologist, a master's degree in psychology is the key that can open more doors for you. Let's explore the top 9 career paths you can pursue with a master's degree in psychology. 

1. Industrial-organizational psychologist

Industrial-organizational psychologists are professionals who use psychological principles and research methods to solve problems in the workforce. Their goal is to study workplace productivity and management and then provide insights on how to improve the productivity and the well-being of the workplace. Moreover, they collaborate with management to help carry out screenings and training sessions and plan policies. Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Helping businesses hire more qualified employees;
• Assessing job performance;
• Improving organizational structure;
• Easing transitions;
• Studying consumer psychology and behavior;
• Helping train and motivate the workforce;
• Improving the quality of life for employers and employees.

The hard and soft skills necessary to be a successful organizational psychologist include:

• Active listening,
• Problem-solving,
• Negotiation and persuasion,
• Data analysis,
• Interpersonal skills,
• Writing and Reading comprehension,
• Business acumen,
• Leadership skills,
• Communication skills. 

Average Salary: $154,380

2. Human resources manager

Human resources (HR) managers oversee an organization's employee management and organizational practices. Their aim is to create and maintain a productive and satisfied workforce. So, in essence, they serve as a bridge between the organization’s management and its employees.

The typical duties and responsibilities of HR managers include:

• Overseeing an organization's recruitment, interview, selection, and hiring processes;
• Coordinating and supervising the work of specialists and supporting staff;
• Linking an organization's management with its employees;
• Planning and coordinating an organization's workforce to best use their employees' talents;
• Planning and overseeing employee benefit programs;
• Serving as a consultant to advise other managers on human resources issues.

To excel as an HR manager, you need a pool of skills such as:

• Communication skills,
• Leadership skills,
• Strategic thinking,
• Organizational skills,
• Interpersonal skills and empathy,
• Training and developmental skills,
• Command of HR technology.

Average Salary: $136,350

3. Research analyst

Research analysts are professionals who deal with data in both private and public organizations. They can work in government agencies, banks, insurance companies, marketing agencies, healthcare providers, and manufacturing companies. Research analysts benefit from a master's degree in psychology, as this credential can help them determine the consumers' opinions through research. 

Although the duties and responsibilities of research analysts vary depending on the industry and employers, generally, they do the following:

• Organize and store data for future use;
• Identify and analyze past trends and recommend improvement based on results;
• Prepare a report on assets and securities for client use;
• Understand the company's or client's requirements to research their benefit.

The essential skills research analysts must possess include:

• Problem-solving, 
• Attention to detail,
• Interpersonal skills,
• Critical thinking,
• Teamwork,
• Research skills.

Average Salary: $102,155

4. Postsecondary psychology teacher

Postsecondary psychology teachers are educators who teach psychology courses in postsecondary institutions such as colleges and universities. They teach basic concepts of human behavior, observational analysis, the scientific method, and psychological theories. On the job, postsecondary psychology teachers do the following:

• Preparing and delivering lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics like work motivation, cognitive processes, and abnormal psychology;
• Evaluating and grading students’ assignments, papers, laboratory work, and classwork;
• Initiating, facilitating, and moderating classroom discussions;
• Compiling and administrating grade examinations;
• Keeping up-to-date with developments in the field and participating in professional conferences.

The crucial skills for postsecondary psychology teachers include:

• Active listening, 
• Critical thinking,
• Communication, 
• Organizational skills,
• Interpersonal skills.

Average Salary: $93,990

5. School psychologist

School psychologists are highly trained professionals who support students' ability to learn and teachers' ability to teach. They apply their expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior to help children and youth succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Moreover, they partner with families, teachers, and other professionals to strengthen the connection between home and school. 

Although the specific duties and responsibilities of school psychologists vary with their students' age, in general, they do the following:

• Helping students understand and overcome social or behavioral challenges;
• Presenting options to students for educational or vocational plans after graduation;
• Evaluating students' abilities and interests through aptitude assessments and interviews;
• Educating students and school staff about specific topics, such as bullying and drug use;
• Advising individuals and groups based on their needs;
• Collaborating with teachers and families to help students plan academic, career, and social goals.

School psychologists need a mix of both technical and interpersonal skills to interact with others and fulfill their job duties effectively. Some of those skills are:

•  Empathy,
• Problem-solving,
• Effective communication,
• Active listening,
• Creating individualized education programs (IEPs),
• Conducting psycho-educational assessments.

Average Salary: $91,990

6. Career counselor or advisor

Career counselors are professionals who work with students or individuals who are at the crossroads of their career or educational path. They also help students locate sources of financial support to pay for school. Career counselors work in universities and colleges, but they can also work in career centers and private practices.

Although their duties and responsibilities depend on where they work, generally they:

• Advise students about the courses and educational programs they need for different careers;
• Counsel clients who are considering a career change;
• Help students select the right schools and programs for their future;
• Administer personality and interest inventories.

The key skills successful career counselors possess include:

• Active listening,
• Communication skills,
• Analytical skills,
• Problem-solving,
• Rapport building.

Average Salary: $61,710

7. Marriage and family therapist

Marriage and family therapists are mental health professionals trained in psychotherapy and family systems. They're licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family dynamics.

Marriage and family therapists are responsible for:

• Asking questions to encourage clients to discuss their emotions and experiences; 
• Helping clients process their reactions and adjust to changes regarding marriage and family dynamics, such as divorce; 
• Creating a treatment plan to help clients develop coping strategies and decision-making skills;
• Maintaining confidential files and records;
• Assessing clients to identify their emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs.

In their line of work, marriage and family therapists need skills like:

• Reasoning and problem-solving, 
• Time management, 
• Communication, 
• Interpersonal skills, 
• Compassion and empathy.

Average Salary: $58,510

8. Social worker

Social workers are professionals devoted to helping vulnerable people and communities work through challenges. They practice in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, government agencies, state and federal agencies, and counseling agencies. The duties and responsibilities of social workers include:

• Assessing clients on a multidimensional level to determine the most effective ways to help them;
• Creating and implementing a treatment plan to help patients overcome, recover, and adjust to their situation;
• Referring clients to medical professionals for further treatment or referring them to support groups specifically geared to their clients' issues;
•  Evaluating and monitoring improvement; 
• Serving as a client's advocate at a micro, mezzo, or macro level.

The skills and traits vital in the work as a social worker include:

• Empathy,
• Communication,
• Organization,
• Active listening,
• Cultural competence,
• Patience,
• Advocacy.

Average Salary: $58,380

9. Mental health counselor or therapist

Mental health counselors are licensed professionals who offer guidance to individuals, couples, families, and groups experiencing issues that affect their mental health and well-being. They rest the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional aspects of mental health as well as substance use conditions. The daily duties and responsibilities of medical health counselors include:

• Encouraging clients to discuss emotions and experiences; 
• Helping clients define goals and plan actions;
• Referring clients to psychologists and other services;
• Developing therapeutic processes; 
• Working with individuals, groups, and communities to improve mental health.

Essential skills and traits in the work of mental health counselors include:

• Listening skills,
• Critical thinking,
• Adaptability,
• Culture awareness, 
• Patience and empathy,
• Communication skills.

Average Salary: $53,710

Conclusion

A master's degree in psychology is a versatile choice, whether you want to pursue further education or dive straight into a career. After earning a master's degree, you can pursue rewarding opportunities in research, counseling, and organizational psychology. 

But how do you determine which career path is right for you? You should explore your interests, skills, and career goals to find the best fit for your professional aspirations. Start exploring today and pave the way towards a rewarding future!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of earning a master’s in psychology?

There are many advantages to earning a master's degree in psychology. Some of them are:

• High earning potential 
• Versatility in the job market
• Strong job outlook and growth
• The opportunity to directly help people.

Is a master’s degree in psychology right for me?

Only you can determine if a master's degree in psychology is right for you. To decide if this credential is something you want to pursue, you should consider career goals, interests, and career goals.