Psychologist

What is this job like?		Back to Top

Psychologists study the human mind. They also try to explain why people act as they do. They do research to test their ideas about people's actions. Research methods vary. They may get data from lab tests, interviews, and surveys.

Psychologists usually specialize. Some help people with mental problems. Others help people deal with divorce and death of a family member or friend. They work with people of all ages, but some work mainly with old people or young people.

Psychologists help people deal with problems of everyday living. Some work in schools to help students with behavior problems. Others help solve problems in places where people work.

Some psychologists do research at colleges and private research centers. They study behavior using human beings and animals, such as rats and monkeys.

Working conditions vary. Some psychologists work as part of a team. Some have their own offices and set their own hours. However, they may also work evenings and weekends to meet with their clients. Those who work in schools and clinics usually work regular hours.

How do you get ready?		Back to Top

Psychologists have to go to school for a long time. Some need a Ph.D. degree. This takes 5 to 7 years of study after completing college. To get a Ph.D. degree, you usually have to write a long paper on a topic that you think of.

People with a master's degree in psychology may work in some specialties. A master's degree in psychology usually requires at least 2 years of study after college.

A bachelor's degree in psychology is enough to qualify as an assistant to psychologists and other professionals in places like community mental health centers. Some may do research.

Psychologists who have their own practice need a license from the State where they want to work. A license requires certain education and work experience, and passing a test. Psychologists who work with patients must be good with people. Those who do research have to be able to work by themselves and as part of a team.

How much does this job pay?		Back to Top

In the largest specialties, the middle half of psychologists earned between $45,300 and $77,750 in 2006. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $35,280. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $102,730.

Earnings vary greatly. Earnings of successful, self-employed psychologists can be much higher.

How many jobs are there?		Back to Top

Psychologists held about 166,000 jobs in 2006. They work at many different places such as schools, hospitals, research firms, businesses, and government agencies.

What about the future?		Back to Top

Employment of psychologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2016. More will be needed to help students, workers, and many people with personal problems.

Psychologists with a Ph.D. degree will have the best chance of getting a job. People with good computer and research skills will have an advantage. People with just a master's or a bachelor's degree will face more competition for jobs.

Are there other jobs like this?		Back to Top

• Clergy
• Counselors
• Doctors
• Social workers
• Teachers—special education

Where can you find more information?		Back to Top

More BLS information about psychologists can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job.

Last Modified Date: April 29, 2008