If you’re considering a master’s degree in psychology, you already know you want to improve the lives of others. But what exactly can you do with a master’s in psychology? Is it a worthwhile degree to pursue? Will you be able to get a job putting your knowledge to work once you graduate? Let’s explore.
A master’s degree in psychology—is it worth it?
The short answer? Yes. Master’s programs in psychology will give you the foundation you need to conduct or apply psychological research that ultimately improves the lives of others. If you’d like to pursue a career as a psychologist, you must start with a graduate degree in psychology before earning your doctorate.
What can I do with a master’s in psychology?
When it comes to jobs with a master’s in psychology, positions are as diverse as the field of psychology itself—and there’s no shortage of psychology master’s programs to prepare you for these vocations.
Those with a master’s degree in psychology work both independently and within teams of diverse professionals, including lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers, policymakers, and business executives. They work in both the public and private sectors. Some psychology professionals work primarily as researchers, while others are primarily practitioners. Many do both as scientist-practitioners. Earning a master’s degree in psychology can also prepare you for advanced studies and put you on track to earning a doctoral degree.
Just a sampling of jobs with a master’s in psychology includes:*
- Human resource manager
- Market researcher
- Project coordinator/manager
- Family services worker
- Instructor at a community college
- Social service manager
- Health project coordinator
- Employee trainer
- Research assistant
- Data analyst/manager
- Organizational consultant
- Intervention advocate
Possible career settings include:
- Child and family service organizations (e.g., day care agencies, after-school programs within schools and communities, Head Start programs, or early childhood education programs)
- Schools
- Community colleges
- Local, state, or federal governments
- Group homes
- Healthcare agencies
- Law enforcement agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Religious organizations
Interested in exploring real-life positions attained by recent graduates of psychology master’s programs? These Walden University graduates are working around the country—and the world—helping individuals and communities with their master’s in psychology.
Ready to dive into a master’s degree in psychology program that fits into your busy schedule? Discover how Walden’s online MS in Psychology program can help you achieve more—in your life and the lives of others.
Note on Licensure
The MS in Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.
*Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.