Is Psychology a Good Major?

Psychology: The Fascination of Human Behavior

At its core, psychology is all about understanding the mind and behavior. If you've ever found yourself wondering why people act the way they do, what drives their choices, or how thoughts influence actions, psychology might just be calling your name. It's a field that tackles some of life's biggest questions, offering insights into everything from how we grow and learn to how we interact with others.

By choosing psychology as your major, you'll get the chance to explore a wide range of intriguing topics, such as:

• Developmental Psychology: Dive into the fascinating journey of human growth and change throughout life.
• Cognitive Psychology: Unravel the mysteries of memory, perception, and problem-solving.
• Social Psychology: Investigate how we interact with others and how social influences shape our behaviors.
• Clinical Psychology: Focus on diagnosing and treating mental health issues, helping people lead healthier lives.

Understanding Different Psychology Degrees

There are various types of degrees in psychology, each catering to different career paths. Here's a quick overview to help you understand your options:

• Bachelor's in Psychology: This is your starting point, offering a solid foundation in psychological concepts and research methods. Whether you opt for a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology or a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, you'll be well-prepared for entry-level roles or further studies (Either will include a focus on the scientific and research aspects and the social sciences as foundational. Your extra-disciplinary and elective course options determine the direction you choose).
• Master's In Psychology: Ready to specialize? A master's degree lets you dive deeper into areas like clinical counseling or industrial-organizational psychology. This opens the door to more advanced roles and gives you the skills needed to make a real impact.
• Doctorate (PhD or PsyD): If you're aiming high—like becoming a licensed psychologist or pursuing an academic career—a doctorate is the way to go. A PhD focuses on research, while a PsyD emphasizes clinical practice, giving you the tools to excel in your chosen path.

Pros of a Psychology Degree

There's a lot to love about majoring in psychology. Here's what makes it such a versatile and rewarding choice:

• Versatility in Career Options: A psychology degree can lead you down many different paths. Whether you're drawn to mental health, human resources, marketing, or social work, the skills you gain are valuable in countless fields. At Bellevue, we even offer a Careers in Psychology course to help you explore the many ways you can apply your degree.
• Deep Understanding of Human Behavior: Studying psychology isn't just about your career—it can also enrich your personal life. Understanding how people think, feel, and behave can improve your communication, deepen your relationships, and help you navigate life's challenges with empathy and insight.
• Strong Foundation for Advanced Studies: Thinking about grad school? A psychology degree is an excellent launchpad for further education, whether in psychology, social work, counseling, law, or even medicine. It gives you a solid grounding in human behavior, making it easier to specialize in your area of interest.
• Personal Fulfillment: For many, psychology is more than just a major—it's a passion. The chance to help others, understand complex human behaviors, and contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities can be incredibly rewarding.

As you are looking ahead to find a career in which you can use your bachelor's degree in psychology, consider how your skills, degree, and experiences prepare you for a job that's right for you, with help from the American Psychological Association's career guide.

Cons of a Psychology Degree

Of course, like any major, psychology has its challenges. Here's what you should consider:

• Need for Advanced Education: A bachelor's degree in psychology is a great start, but many careers in the field require advanced degrees. This means you'll need to be ready for more time in school, along with the extra effort and financial investment that comes with it.
• Competitive Job Market: Psychology is a popular field, and that means competition—especially for jobs that require only a bachelor's degree. While advanced degrees can give you an edge, they come with their own set of challenges.
• Emotionally Demanding: Working in psychology, particularly in areas like mental health or counseling, can be tough. You'll need strong emotional resilience and solid self-care practices to navigate the complexities of helping others through difficult times.
• Lower Starting Salaries: Entry-level positions in psychology often come with modest salaries, especially if you have just a bachelor's degree. While there's potential for higher earnings as you gain experience and advanced qualifications, the initial pay might be lower than in some other fields.

Is Psychology a Respected Degree?

Absolutely. Psychology is a highly respected degree, known for its rigorous academic training and wide-ranging relevance. Here's why:

• Academic Rigor: Psychology programs are challenging, with coursework that covers complex theories, empirical research, and statistical analysis. This training sharpens your critical thinking, analytical skills, and deepens your understanding of human behavior—all of which are highly valued in both academia and the workplace.

At Bellevue University, you'll be studying with faculty who are thought-leaders in the field. Our instructors are more than just educators — they're influencers who serve as reviewers of professional psychology journals and lead organizations like Rocky Mountain Psychological Association, the American Name Society, among others. With their guidance, you'll be learning from supportive and esteemed experts who can help you make strides in your career. Learn more about our bachelor degree in psychology.

• Scientific Credibility: Psychology is firmly rooted in the scientific method, emphasizing evidence-based practices. This commitment to research and data ensures that psychology is recognized as a credible and reliable discipline, making valuable contributions to healthcare, education, business, and more.
• Versatility and Application: A psychology degree is incredibly versatile. Whether you're working in mental health, education, corporate environments, or public policy, the ability to understand and influence human behavior is a powerful asset, enhancing the degree's reputation and value.
• Impact on Society: The work psychologists do has a profound impact on society, from improving mental health care to shaping public policies that promote well-being. This societal value further elevates psychology as a respected and essential discipline.
• Professional Recognition: Psychology is backed by a strong professional community, with organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) upholding high standards of practice and ethics. This recognition and support further enhance the credibility of the degree.

Is Psychology the Right Major for You?

At the end of the day, the decision to major in psychology comes down to your interests, career goals, and willingness to embrace the challenges of the field. Here are a few final thoughts to consider:

• Interest in Human Behavior: Are you truly curious about why people think, feel, and behave the way they do? If you find these questions fascinating, psychology offers endless opportunities to explore them.
• Long-Term Career Vision: Where do you see yourself in the future? If you're passionate about helping others, intrigued by research, or excited about applying psychological principles in various industries, psychology could be a perfect fit.
• Willingness to Pursue Advanced Education: Are you open to further study if your chosen career path requires it? Understanding the potential need for advanced degrees is crucial when choosing psychology as your major.