Verywell / JR Bee
So, you love learning how the brain works, helping others, and spending countless hours diagnosing yourself and your friends using the latest TikTok mental health videos (we’ve all been there). If psychology is your passion, you might wonder: What type of psychology degree do I need to work in this field?
No matter what you plan do to with your education (help others, do research, solve problems, etc.), there’s a degree option out there that will help you reach your goals. Psychology degree options include those at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The five main types are an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a PhD, and a PsyD.
At a Glance
Should you get a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate? How do you decide whether to get a PhD or PsyD? A psychology degree can help prepare you for a great career in mental health, education, counseling, research, or applied fields, but you first need to decide which path is right for you. If you are considering earning a psychology degree, it’s important to understand what level of education you need to enter your chosen career path. An associate or bachelor’s degree might be a good option if you want to dip your toes into the field, but most careers require grad study (either a master’s or doctorate). Before you commit to an educational path, start by learning more about the different types of psychology degrees and what you can do with each option.
Takeaways
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to a psychology education and career. There are many options to choose from, so it’s important to think about your plans, talk to an academic advisor, and decide which degree will help you achieve your goals. Let’s be honest: college is *expensive,* so it’s wise to figure out what you want to do before you commit to investing your educational dollars in a psychology degree.
