What is a Psychology Degree?
The field of psychology offers a fascinating look into human behavior, thoughts, emotions and mental function. Using a combination of science and research, psychologists gain insight into the motivations that drive actions and decision-making. You may be wondering: what are the different types of psychology degrees? Just as there are many different types of human behavior, there are many different fields of study within psychology.
Types of Psychology Degrees
Earning a psychology degree at any level is an accomplishment worthy of celebration. Students who complete coursework in a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate program for psychology are well-prepared for a career in a wide range of occupations, including mental health care, academia, private practice, social services and more. Because of the many different types of psychology degrees available, there are many different opportunities available to graduates.
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
Completing a bachelor’s degree in psychology is the first step toward building a rewarding career, whether academic or professional. Once you’ve obtained a bachelor’s degree, it’s possible to go on to complete a master’s and even doctorate degree in psychology or a related major. Earning a bachelor’s in psychology also provides entry to many interesting careers that may not require a higher level degree. These professional opportunities span the public, private and non-profit sector, and include human services jobs like:
Career Opportunities for Psychology Bachelor’s Degrees
- Addictions or Mental Health Case Manager
- Adoption Agencies
- Child Development Specialist
- Community Organizer
- Cultural-Diversity Trainer
- Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Foster Care Organizations
- Graduate School
- Head Start Programs
Master’s Degrees in Psychology
Earning a master’s degree in psychology is another way to unlock earning potential in this field, because this postsecondary degree requires more advanced and specialized knowledge. Most practicing psychologists possess at least a master’s degree, which provides them with the training and expertise to accurately understand human behavior and address mental health concerns. While you may be wondering ‘what are the different types of psychology degrees’, you may also be curious about the types of jobs available to psychologists with a master’s. Here are a few career opportunities in human services to consider:
Career Opportunities for Psychology Master’s Degrees
- Family Services Worker
- Health Project Coordinator
- Human Resource Specialist
- Instructor at a Community College
- Market Researcher
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Organizational Consultant
- Victim’s advocate
- School Psychologist (on requires a Master’s in Ohio)
Doctoral Degrees in Psychology
A doctorate in psychology is the highest level of study possible. A doctorate in psychology can include a focus on clinical psychology, counseling psychology or school psychology. There are two types of doctoral degrees in psychology, a Psy.D. and a Ph.D.
Someone who earns a doctorate in psychology, or a Psy.D., has a scientific perspective on the field, and often works in a hands-on, clinical setting. Ph.D. students are doctors of philosophy, which focuses more on the research aspect of psychology. Most Ph.D. recipients will go on to work as psychology researchers or academics, but it’s also possible to work as a licensed psychologist.
Both a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. are tremendous academic achievements that create students who are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
Tiffin University’s Psychology Degree Programs
Bachelor of Arts Psychology
Offered in an accommodating online format, Tiffin University’s BA in psychology program provides a solid foundation for students who wish to work as psychologists or in social services. In addition to core courses, students can expect to participate in internships and self-directed studies. Instructors are experts in their field, and provide experiential learning opportunities on a wide range of topics related to psychology, including: counseling, crisis intervention, research methodologies and more.
Master of Science Psychology
Tiffin University’s MS in psychology program develops practical skills for students to apply to a clinical setting after graduation. This degree program is also offered online only, and builds off of the bachelor’s program to further sharpen students’ intellectual and practical skills. The master’s program at Tiffin University is focused on the theoretical and scientific aspects of psychology rather than the clinical practice. As such, this is a more research-driven program, and coursework includes classes on statistics, analysis, theoretical approaches to psychology and more.
Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology is a great example answering the question, what are the different types of psychology degrees? A subset of clinical psychology, this particular area of study focuses on both understanding the mindset of criminals and finding a role for psychology within the criminal justice system. Offered on Tiffin University’s campus, the MS in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology program includes courses that provide a deep understanding of criminals, victims and the legal system —from ethics, different types of violent crimes, psychological best practices and plenty more.
There are many different types of psychology degrees offering many different pathways to a long-lasting and inspiring career. Whether you’re interested in attaining a broad but solid foundation to enter the workforce, or want to have comprehensive, expert-level understanding in the field, Tiffin University’s psychology programs provide an excellent educational experience. Our small class sizes lead to hands-on, personal learning opportunities, while affordable and flexible learning options ensure students are able to truly succeed through graduation. Click below to learn more about the undergraduate and graduate psychology programs at Tiffin University.
Bachelor’s in Psychology
Master’s in Psychology
Master’s in Criminal Justice – Forensic Psychology
