MS in General Psychology

With a general psychology degree, students can get involved in counseling and therapy, research, teaching, and clinical work. Psychology students are also able to help in forensic investigations, theological departments, schools, sports teams, and more. There are both typical and unusual jobs in this field. Some psychology jobs require licensing, depending on the state, and in order to pass the required exams, students may want to take advantage of specialized classes in areas that most interest them. Job settings typically include private practices, schools, offices, hospitals, community centers, and businesses.

Steps Toward a MS in General Psychology

To become a psychologist, requirements vary significantly by state. Successful students typically complete the following steps:

1. Earn proper undergraduate degree (requirements vary by state). Common undergraduate degrees include Bachelor of Science programs in education, psychology or human services.
2. Earn proper graduate degree (requirements vary by state) from an accredited institution like Purdue, Liberty, or Walden University. Typically includes completing a Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology.
3. Continuing education. Advancement to case management, social work, or counseling jobs requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in human services, counseling, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field. Psychologists require a doctoral degree.

Professionals in the field should consider membership with the Society of General Psychology, Division One of the American Psychological Association (APA). Membership benefits include access to the newsletter and quarterly journal, discounts on books, APA programs and presentations, and networking opportunities with people of among all of psychology’s subfields. There are memberships at the professional, student, student affiliate of APA, and APA member levels.

My Degree and What It’s Worth

This degree has wide application in the field of counseling, and may be followed with a doctoral degree in some specialized field. A general psychology professional is typically responsible for the following job duties:

• Help clients master living skills and communicate more effectively.
• Support the client’s participation in a treatment plan.
• Offer case management support and guidance.
• Arrange for medical care, vocational training, job placement and other outside services.

Annual salary varies within the profession based on specific type of job, location, and experience. For more on your earning potential in the field of general psychology, please visit our salary outlook for counselors page.

Online MS in General Psychology Degree Programs

• Purdue University: MS in Psychology
• Purdue University: MS in Psychology – General Psychology
• Northcentral University: MS in Psychology – General Psychology
• University of the Rockies: MA in Psychology – General Psychology

Psychology Specializations

The following degrees are specializations in a master’s degree program in psychology, allowing you to pursue various careers in this field:

• MS in Applied Psychology
• MS in Child Psychology
• MS in Clinical Psychology
• MS in Community Psychology
• MS in Counseling Psychology
• MS in Counseling Psychology
• MA in Health & Wellness Psychology
• MS in Leadership Coaching Psychology
• MS in Mental Health Psychology
• MS in School Psychology
• MS in Sports Psychology