A doctorate in psychology can lead to a meaningful career that effects positive change in your life and the lives of others.
A PhD in psychology lends itself to a variety of careers in a wide range of settings. With a bright job forecast and multiple professional avenues to pursue, it’s a great time to explore how a doctorate in psychology can help you meet your personal and career goals.
PhD in Psychology Career Forecast
If you’re focused on advancing your career as you help others improve their lives, a PhD psychology program may be worth investigating.
The career forecast for those with a doctorate in psychology is bright. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for industrial and organizational psychologists is estimated to grow a whopping 53% between 2012 and 2022, with other psychology careers in areas such as clinical, counseling, or school psychology growing at a still-impressive 11% to 12%. Factor in a median 2012 salary of $90,000 for these positions, and there’s even more reason to start investigating PhD psychology programs.
What Type of Job Can You Get with a Doctorate in Psychology?
Jobs for those with a PhD in psychology are as diverse as degree holders themselves. A doctorate in psychology can open doors to a variety of positions, including:*
- Researcher
- Consultant
- Teacher/professor
- Director of career planning and development
- Staff psychologist
- Administrator
- Political strategist
- Human resources manager/director
Where Can You Work with a PhD in Psychology?
The vocations listed above make valuable contributions to communities, government, nonprofits, and private organizations, enabling those with a PhD in psychology to work directly with diverse populations in a number of different settings.
These settings include (but are not limited to) mental health centers, government agencies, healthcare organizations, corporations, community agencies, social services organizations, and schools.
PhD Psychology Programs: Specializations
The career you pursue with your doctorate in psychology is likely to depend on what specialization you choose upon entering your chosen PhD psychology program.
Specializations within PhD psychology programs can include:
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Educational psychology
- Forensic psychology
- General psychology
- Health psychology
- Organizational diversity and social change
- Social psychology
Interested in earning your doctorate in psychology? Discover how Walden’s online PhD in Psychology program can change your life and the lives of others.
*Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
Note on Licensure
Walden University offers some PhD in Psychology specializations that lead to professional licensure and others that do not. Contact an Enrollment Specialist for assistance in evaluating whether your chosen specialization can lead to professional licensure in your state.