Introduction to PSYC
@ UMGC

• Introduction
• From the Chair
• The Psychology Program at UMGC
• Ethical Guidelines and Considerations
• Graduate School and "Getting In"
• Careers and Fields within Psychology
• Using the Library
• Linking to Psychology

Careers and Fields within Psychology

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A psychology undergraduate degree is the beginning for those who wish to become psychologists or counselors. Many states require at least a master's degree for provisional licensure; most require a terminal degree (PhD, PsyD, or EdD). Make sure to check your state's requirements.

This does not mean that individuals with an undergraduate psychology degree cannot find a job; it just becomes a bit more challenging, and requires you to interpret the skills you have learned and explain how they relate to specific job qualifications. The Program Outcomes provide you with an indication of what you should be able to do once you successfully complete the degree program.

Here are other resources that may help you as you consider your future:

• Zeigler, D. E. & Orchowski, L. M. (2010). Psychology major! What are you going to do with that? Strategies for maximizing your degree. Eye on Psi Chi, 14(3), 26-29. This wonderful article is one of many that the International Honor Society in Psychology has published to help in planning the "next" step.
• About.com provides several useful articles that can help you to identify the skills you have learned and how to present yourself to potential employers. The first, "What Can You Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology?", provides a list of careers that you may consider, and the second, "Career Options With a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology," describes those skills that you can translate into possible job opportunities.

Another great source of information is your psychology professor. He or she can help you think about what you want to do and advise you on potential ways to achieve your goals.