Should You Pursue Graduation or Employment After Obtaining a Psychology Bachelor’s Degree?

After earning your Bachelor's degree in Psychology, you are faced with a crossroads: should you start your career immediately or further your education? This decision can significantly impact your professional trajectory and job satisfaction. This article explores the pros and cons of both paths, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.

Combining Employment and Further Education

The ideal scenario may be a two-pronged approach – securing employment that can fund your education (::$###Step1

Start by researching entry-level positions available with only a Bachelor's in Psychology. Many fields like human resources, social work, or market research can provide valuable experience and a steady income. However, if you are considering working for Child Protective Services (CPS), it’s crucial to avoid financial dependence and potential ethical conflicts.

Exploring Career Goals and Educational Paths

The decision to pursue further education ultimately depends on your career goals. A Bachelor's alone might not secure a high paying or specialized role within the field. Many professionals choose to pursue a Master's degree in areas such as clinical or counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or even related fields like education.

For instance, a career in clinical psychology typically requires a Master's or doctoral degree. Your undergraduate GPA and overall academic performance should be a key factor in deciding whether to apply for a graduate program. A strong GPA can significantly increase your chances of securing a spot in competitive programs.

Continuing Your Education Post-Bachelors

Broadening your education can lead to more diverse career opportunities. One potential pathway is through an advanced standing Social Work (SW) graduate program. Since you have already completed your Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW), an advanced standing program might enable you to complete your Master's within two years. This can accelerate your career progression and allow you to start working toward clinical hours for licensure.

Learning from Personal Experiences

Consider the experiences of others in similar situations. My daughter, for instance, earned a Bachelor's in Psychology with a vague plan to work in personal counseling. However, that often requires a Master's degree. She managed to secure a job with the state in vocational rehabilitation counseling, but the funding was inconsistent. She inevitably shifted careers into a customer service role at ATT, and later transitioned to an IT Project Manager position.

This case study underscores the importance of clarifying your job search objectives. While your initial degree is a stepping stone, your choice of career path will ultimately dictate your success.

Broadening Skills and Career Opportunities

Consider alternative education pathways such as an apprenticeship in the trades. These programs are often remunerated and can provide broad employability and geographical mobility. After completing an apprenticeship, you can work almost anywhere in the country and pursue a part-time Master's in psychology or another related field.

Even if your initial degree in psychology does not directly translate into high-paying roles, skilled trades positions can offer significant earnings. Many skilled trade positions pay between $25 to $45 per hour, which is more than enough to cover student loan repayments and potentially fund a part-time Master's degree.

Conclusion

Your choice between employment and further education after obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Psychology should be guided by your career aspirations. Understanding the requirements for your desired field, researching potential job opportunities, and considering alternative educational paths can help you chart the best course for your future.

Ultimately, the pursuit of knowledge and career goals is an ongoing journey. By remaining flexible and open to opportunities, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in psychology or a related field.