Stepping into the world of psychology isn’t just about studying the mind – it’s an entrance to a realm of diverse professional opportunities. From helping people heal to understanding behavior, psychology degree jobs offer a wide range of career paths you can take.
In this article, we explore the exciting landscape of careers that a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology in the Philippines can lead to. Get ready to discover how this degree can open doors to impactful and fulfilling careers across various fields.
But First, What is Psychology?
At its core, psychology is the art and science of understanding the intricate workings of the human mind. It delves into the mysteries of thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and the complex interplay between them.
And when pursuing a career in psychology there are two degrees you can take that may ultimately influence your future profession: the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Both programs offer the core principles of psych. However, the difference between BA and BS Psychology lies in the topics integrated into their curricula.
With the BA degree program, it emphasizes a broader liberal arts education, integrating the humanities and social sciences within the course. On the other hand, the BS degree program is more science-oriented, focusing on research methodologies and analytical skills.
These key differences dictate the future career you will take. It’s important to decide which field you’re more inclined to study as it influences your professional path.
So, What are the Career Options in Psychology?
Choosing which job in the field of psychology to go after can be a daunting task. But since psychology is a broad field, there are many occupations to choose from that can even inspire career changes to psychology.
Here are some of the more popular job opportunities you can pursue within the field:
1. Clinical Psychologist: Diving into the Human Psyche
Clinical Psychology is one of the most well-known branches of the field. It revolves around diagnosing and treating mental health disorders to help patients navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction.
Clinical psychologists typically conduct assessments, provide therapy, and develop treatment plans that aid clients in achieving emotional well-being. Whether practicing independently or within healthcare institutions, clinical psychologists play a pivotal role in improving the mental health of individuals and communities.
To be a clinical psychologist, you will have to invest more time in your studies and attain a doctorate before undergoing a licensure exam. It’s crucial to be equipped with the right mindset and training to tackle your patient’s concerns.
According to Salary Expert, the average salary for clinical psychologists in the Philippines amounts to ₱712,907 per year.
2. Counseling Psychologist: Guiding Personal Growth
Counseling psychologists focus on helping individuals overcome challenges to achieve personal growth and self-awareness. They provide guidance on issues related to relationships, career decisions, and life transitions.
Generally, counseling psychologists utilize various therapeutic approaches to facilitate positive change. With their expertise in fostering healthy coping mechanisms, counseling psychologists empower individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.
To be a Counseling Psychologist, you have to at least attain a master’s degree in psychology and pass the licensure exam to be able to practice. Doing so can let you be a family counselor, marriage therapist, or a personal therapist.
Similar to clinical psychologists, Salary Expert computed the average annual salary for counseling psychologists in the Philippines amounting to ₱703,459.
3. School Psychologist: Nurturing Future Generations
School psychologists work within educational settings to support each student’s academic and emotional development. They assess learning disabilities, provide interventions for behavioral issues, and collaborate with educators and parents to create a conducive learning environment.
By addressing both academic and emotional concerns, school psychologists contribute to the holistic growth of students, enabling them to thrive academically and personally.
Generally, to be a school psychologist you need a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling before taking the licensure examination. This ensures that you’re fully qualified to help student growth and address their concerns.
The computed average yearly salary of school psychologists in the Philippines amounts to ₱627,015 according to Salary Expert.
4. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Enhancing Workplace Dynamics
Industrial-organizational psychologists dive into the dynamics of the workplace, focusing on improving employee satisfaction, productivity, and organizational effectiveness. They analyze factors that influence job performance, conduct assessments, and develop strategies to enhance workplace communication, leadership, and team dynamics.
By aligning individual and organizational goals, industrial-organizational psychologists contribute to creating healthier and more efficient work environments.
Similar to becoming a counseling psychologist, you will have to attain a master’s degree in psychology before taking the Licensure Examination for Psychologists. Successfully doing so will qualify you to address issues in the workplace and create a productive environment for employees.
The average annual salary of organizational psychologists in the Philippines amounts to ₱960,278 as per Salary Expert’s data.
5. Human Resources Specialist: Nurturing Organizational Well-being
Human resources specialists with a background in psychology bring a unique perspective to the field. They understand human behavior and motivation, making them adept at managing employee relations, facilitating conflict resolution, and enhancing workplace communication. They play a crucial role in creating a positive work environment and fostering employee satisfaction.
Usually, you wouldn’t need a master’s degree to become an HR specialist. However, if you want to be a licensed Psychometrician––an HR officer who designs and conducts aptitude tests, you will need an MA in Psychology before taking the board exam.
According to Salary Expert, the average yearly salary of HR specialists in the Philippines amount to ₱393,987. Of course, this may be subject to change as you move up your organization’s hierarchy.
6. Health Psychologist: Bridging Mind and Body
Health psychologists or Psychiatrists explore the intricate connections between psychological well-being and physical health. They contribute to promoting healthy behaviors, managing chronic illnesses, and improving patient adherence to medical treatments.
Health psychologists typically collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop interventions that address psychological factors influencing overall health outcomes.
Since Psychiatrists work hand-in-hand with healthcare professionals, being able to practice in this profession may require a medical degree.
And once you’ve gained enough experience in this field, you can expect the average annual salary of health psychologists to be ₱1,360,894 according to Salary Expert.
7. Sports Psychologist: Unleashing Human Potential
Sports psychologists specialize in enhancing athletic performance and promoting mental well-being among athletes. They work with individuals and teams to address performance anxiety, motivation, and goal setting. By helping athletes develop mental resilience and focus, sports psychologists play a pivotal role in optimizing performance and fostering a positive sports culture.
Like Counseling Psychologists, you will have to attain a master’s degree in psychology before taking the Licensure Examination for Psychologist. Accomplishing this will qualify you to address the needs of athletes as they handle the pressure of sports.
As a sports psychologist, you can possibly earn ₱660,368 per year in the Philippines according to Salary Expert.
8. Forensic Psychologist: Merging Psychology and Law
Forensic psychologists bridge the gap between psychology and the legal system. They apply their expertise to matters such as criminal investigations, court proceedings, and correctional systems.
Forensic psychologists can evaluate criminal offenders’ mental states, provide expert testimony, and offer recommendations for rehabilitation and treatment. Their insights contribute to the administration of justice and the understanding of criminal behavior.
Like most psychologist careers, you may have to attain at least a master’s degree and a license in psychology before practicing as a Forensic Psychologist. Dealing with the minds of criminals or being an “expert witness” may be a delicate profession that requires a deeper understanding of human behavior.
According to Salary Expert’s data, forensic psychologists earn an average of ₱299,764 per annum.
9. Researchers and Academics: Expanding the Frontiers of Knowledge
For those driven by a passion for discovery and inquiry, a career in research and academia offers an avenue to contribute to the expanding body of psychological knowledge.
Research psychologists generally design and conduct studies to uncover new insights into human behavior, cognition, and emotion. They often teach and mentor students in academic institutions, nurturing the next generation of psychological thinkers.
If you want to pursue a career in academia, you may be required to attain a doctorate in the field of psychology before becoming a full-fledged professor. You can ask your place of work whether their institution requires a Ph.D.
According to the data from World Salaries, the average salary for professors in the Philippines amount to ₱627,900.
10. Market Research Analyst: Unveiling Consumer Behavior
Psychology graduates possess insights into human decision-making and behavior, making them valuable assets in the field of market research. Market research analysts assess consumer behavior, preferences, and trends to inform business strategies and product development. Their understanding of psychological factors contributes to effective marketing campaigns and product innovations.
Generally, to be a market research analyst you don’t need further education beyond your bachelor’s degree. However, having a master’s degree may give you an advantage as you further your career.
Data from World Salaries show that the median salary for Market Research Analysts in the Philippines earns up to ₱679,200 annually.
Ultimately, deciding between all these occupations to pursue is dependent on what strikes your interest the most. Whether your passion lies in helping individuals overcome mental health challenges, guiding personal growth, or contributing to scientific research, the field of psychology presents a diverse range of career opportunities.
Jumpstarting Your Career in Psychology with OEd
Now that you have an understanding of the careers you can pursue in the field of psychology, you can make an informed decision on which educational journey to take in your further education. And whether you take the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science in Psychology, we are your perfect partner to push and guide you to career success!
Here at OEd, we put our commitment to helping students first. And to successfully do so, we adapted to modern learning and became pioneers as the first online university in the Philippines. This way we can help students pursue their education with the flexibility that digital learning provides.
And with our distinguished faculty of industry experts and scholars, we ensure that our students can reach their full potential to achieve academic excellence.
Let us help you throughout your educational journey and contact us today to learn how!