Majoring in Psych? : Career Options for Psychology Undergraduates

by Morgan, Betsy L.; Korschgen, Ann

• ISBN13: 9780205326433
• ISBN10: 0205326439
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-01-01
• Publisher: Allyn & Bacon

Summary

Focusing on the multiple ways that students can enhance their marketability while still in school, this guide answers the career-planning questions most psychology majors find themselves asking. This friendly guide looks at psychology as both a discipline and a liberal arts degree from a career perspective. The authors have compiled information to help students demystify the process of career development. Using a question-and-answer format, this valuable resource shows students how they can take an early and active role in shaping their professional paths. The humorous, down-to-earth tone makes this book accessible to all students.

Table of Contents

Introduction

1. Should I Major in Psychology?
What does it mean to major in psychology?
What is the benefit of psychology versus any other degrees?
So, what is psychology?
Why should I be a psychology major?
What if I really want to be a counselor/therapist?
Will I be able to get a job?
Will I make any money?
What if I already know what I want to be when I “grow up?”

2. How Can I Be Sure?
If I am thinking of psychology as a major what can I do to make certain it is right for me?
What issues or questions should I be considering?
What else might help me now as I plan my psychology major?
A four year timeline.
What if I have declared a psychology major late in my academic career—what good is a timeline?
What do I do if I decide that psychology is NOT the best major for me?

3. Will I Get a Job?
What kinds of jobs are “right” for psychology majors?
Profile of a human services worker.
Profile of a parole officer.
Profile of a human resources recruiter.

4. How Do I Explore Careers?
Where do I start?
Resources.

5. How do I enhance my employability?
So why should I care about my “marketability” ?
What are some steps to optimize my opportunities?
Get to know your faculty.
Get to know and use resources that can assist you.
Volunteer some of your time and talent to campus or community organizations.
Participate in at least one (if not more) internship experience.
Take coursework that supports your plans.
What if I have special considerations?

6. Will I Make Any Money?
What do I need to know about my income potential as a psychology major?
What type of starting salary can I expect?
What are starting salaries with a master's degree or doctorate in psychology?
What if I am offered a salary that is less than what I believe I deserve?

7. Should I Go to Graduate School?
What are the key issues to consider? Am I an attractive applicant?
What kind of graduate schools are there to consider? A Master's vs. Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.; what gives?
What if I'm still not sure about whether or not I want to go to graduate school?
Will it hurt my chances to take a year or more off (e.g. not go to graduate school right away)?

8. How Do I Prepare for Graduate School?
What steps are involved in applying to graduate school?
Graduate school preparation timeline.
How do I maximize my chance of getting into graduate school?
How do I maximize my chances of getting into graduate school?
Why is research experience so important?
What about relevant experience?
What about application essays and interviews?

9. How Do I Do a Job Search?
How do I get started in conducting a successful job search?
How do I target and research possible employers?
How do I design a resume?
What about my references?
What categories of information should I use in my resume?
I have a job interview! How do I prepare?

10. I Have My Job, Now What?
What should my first objectives be in my new job?
How do I become effective in my specific work assignments?
How do I know if I am “on track” with the direction of my career?
How do I keep from making my work for life?
What should I do to allow for job change opportunities?