Clinical psychologists help individuals who are suffering from depression, drug addiction, and any other mental disorder. They help people live a better and healthier life. These professionals leave a great impact on the community by saving lives.
What Is Clinical Psychology?
Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology that provides help to individuals and families. Professionals working in this field diagnose various emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders. Some of the common disorders may include learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders, etc. These professionals use various methods to diagnose any existing problems or potential danger. A clinical psychology degree is usually for students who have an interest in psychology and in improving the well-being of others.
Undergraduate, graduate and doctorate degrees are available in the field of clinical psychology.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Clinical Psychology?
With a degree in clinical psychology, graduates can find employment in various fields. Some of these students assist expert clinical psychologists to gain exposure and skills, others prefer to work in an academic setting, like school counseling. Since most of the students have completed a practicum during their degree, it is easier for them to choose a field as a profession. Personal interests and personality traits play an important role in this regard.
The following are some of the career options chosen by clinical psychology graduates.
School and Career Counselors
School counselors facilitate students in developing social and academic skills which help them succeed in their life. Career counselors help students in developing skills and choosing a career path.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $57,040 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 8% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $61,000 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 32,650 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | California | $78,250 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
These professionals assist in the rehabilitation of law offenders who are on parole or in custody. They write reports and provide resources to the parolees and probationers.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $54,290 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 3% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $59,910 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 13,390 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | California | $91,760 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Medical and Health Service Managers
Medical and health service managers direct, organize, and coordinate all medical activities. They can either manage a specific department or a whole clinic. These professionals make sure that all relevant healthcare laws and regulations are being implemented.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $100,980 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 18% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $115,160 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 36,940 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | District of Columbia | $150,040 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from a Clinical Psychology Program?
A clinical psychology program helps students develop the necessary skills that may help them during their professional life. This program is offered by various colleges across the country. Some colleges offer a campus-based program, while others offer an online program. Students can specialize in any of the concentration areas offered, including school psychology, abnormal psychology, social work, industrial, and organizational psychology, etc. Some of the courses offered during these programs include group psychotherapy techniques, childhood behavioral disorders, personality theory, marital and family systems, and advanced psychology, etc.
How to Choose a Clinical Psychology Program?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program
- Check if scholarships are being offered
- Consider the total time of the program
- Consider the cost of the degree program
- Check if the specialization you desire is being offered
Clinical Psychology Program Admission Requirements
To get admitted to a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology, students should have a minimum GPA and a high school diploma. However, to get a master’s degree, they are required to have good GRE scores and an undergraduate degree. Each school has different requirements.