What should I know when considering a degree in Masters in Psychology?
- A master's in psychology opens more opportunity in the field of research.
- Most counselors are required to have a master's in psychology.
- A master's degree offers students access to more specialized training and research in the field.
How does someone earn a master's in psychology?
A master's degree (M.A) is a graduate degree that extends education a step beyond the bachelor's degree. Rather than receiving a blanketing of information from many different areas in the psychology field, a person who earns a master's in psychology becomes a specialist in one specific area, such as child psychology, sports psychology, or health psychology. In general, a master's program is much more demanding, and more selective, than a bachelor's degree program. Graduation requirements for a master's student usually involves researching and writing a scholarly paper in their area of specialty. Many master's level students go on to work toward their PhD, a degree even more specialized. There are some programs that offer a master's and PhD program in one sweep.
What career opportunities are available for someone with a master's in psychology?
A master's degree in psychology opens many doors that may be closed to those with only a bachelor's degree. The options, however, vary by a state regulation. There is the possibility of earning a clinical master's degree which, in some states, allows individuals to practice as a psychologist. Most states, however, only allow PhDs to become practicing psychologists. A master's degree trains a student to have more advanced skills in research, statistics, analytical reasoning and critical thinking. These are skills that help a person with a master's degree land a research job. Some other jobs for professionals at this level include school counseling and school psychology, as well as positions in corporate training departments. If a more advanced degree is in your sight, a master's degree could help shoot you into a PhD program. Many PhD programs prefer students who are successful in a master's program because they've proven they can do graduate-level work.
How much money does someone with a master's in psychology make?
This is a tough question to answer because there are many different career paths that can be taken with a master's in psychology. Most, however decide to go into counseling. The average yearly salary for counselors ranges between $40,000 and $64,000 a year. Salaries could be much less or much greater than this average range, depending greatly on the type of counseling someone does.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of earning a master's in psychology online?
Earning an online Masters degree may be the most convenient choice for people who want to further their education and expand their employment potential. Probably the biggest benefit for earning a master's in psychology is the increase in salary; some professionals with a master's degree earn as much as twice their salary after receiving a master's degree. Online options make it possible for professionals to make an upward swing in their profession without having to take two to three years off of work. The downside of receiving a master's degree in psychology through an online school is the lack of hands-on research opportunities available in such programs. Though the quality and opportunities in online programs will likely improve over the years, most employers will be more impressed by a degree earned through a traditional university program. Another possible disadvantage to earning a master's degree in psychology online is the reality that there are few interactions with the professor or other students in these types of programs, so there is also the need to be self-sufficient and self-motivated to succeed.
What are the leading schools offering programs in Masters in Psychology?
- University of Phoenix - Human Services : Founded in 1976, University of Phoenix is the largest accredited private University in the U.S. Students who earn a Bachelor of Science in Human Services get a solid grounding in both the practical and theoretical aspects of working in the fields of counseling, social work, and psychology. Students in this line of study take 60 credits in courses ranging from human behavior, to managing and financing human services program. Most students can earn a degree in as few as 2 years. (More Info)
- Walden University : Walden University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers Ph.D., master's and bachelor's degrees in management and doctoral and
master's degrees in psychology, education and health and human services
to meet the specific needs of adult learners. Walden University has
over 30 years of experience delivering programs from a distance while
maintaining its student-centered focus on quality and integrity. (More Info)
- University of the Rockies : University of the Rockies provides high-quality, accessible learning opportunities globally for diverse groups of individuals seeking preparation for life goals, professional practice, service, and distinguished leadership. (More Info)
- Capella University (Graduate) : Capella University offers online graduate degree learning in Education, Human Services, Psychology, Business, and Technology. Students earn master and doctorate degrees while preparing for professional entry-level and advanced career opportunities—all without entering a classroom. (More Info)
- California Coast University : Established in 1973, California Coast University has enabled working adults without the time or access to a physical school with the opportunity to complete degree training programs that can open new career doors. Flexible distance-learning classes ensure that students will earn an undergraduate or graduate degree in Business Administration, Management, Psychology, and Health Care Administration in as much or as little time as they have available. (More Info)
- Northcentral University : Northcentral University is an accredited online university that offers students both graduate and undergraduate degrees in programs including business and technology management, education and psychology. (More Info)
- California University of Pennsylvania : California University of Pennsylvania provides career-oriented online training to those students interested in professional careers in education and legal studies. Bachelor and master degrees are available along with graduate certificates to help students start new careers without disrupting their busy schedules. (More Info)
- Argosy University Online : Argosy University Online provides convenient and flexible online career education to prepare students who might otherwise not have the opportunity to enhance their career through college learning. Master and Doctoral degrees are available in various programs including Psychology and Education. (More Info)
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