There are a number of high-paying jobs for psychology grads available today. This is especially true for those who obtained their degrees from accredited programs and reputable schools. In addition, graduates who seek further education are more likely to end up in high-paying positions. Psychology degrees are available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral level. However, associate degree graduates may have limited employment opportunities. This is why most bachelor’s degree graduates proceed to getting a master’s or doctoral degree. The top three psychology programs that made it to the U.S. News and World Report ranking include Harvard University, University of Cambridge and Stanford University. These universities were ranked based on their academic reputation.
1. Child Psychiatrist
Child psychiatrist is among the most in-demand and the top-paying fields in psychology. These professionals can earn an average salary of $160,000 or more. They are medical doctors who treat emotionally and mentally disturbed children. However, these professionals have gone beyond their psychology degrees. They spend eight years in psychiatry residency and another four years in medical school. Child psychiatrists are addressed as doctors. Unlike clinical psychologists, they can prescribe medication to patients.
2. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
Industrial-organizational psychologists earn as much as $97,820 on average. However, psychology students who have completed a bachelor’s degree have to obtain master’s or doctorate degree before they can qualify for this position. They work in big companies and deal with workplace issues. They are responsible for identifying qualified employees for a particular job. They also initiate and conduct research surveys. Starting salary for master’s degree graduates is approximately $40,000.
3. Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists generally work in physician’s offices, scientific research institutions and general hospitals. They may earn as much as $90,460 on average. The best place for neuropsychologists to work is with the federal government as it is the largest employer. After the bachelor’s degree, aspiring neuropsychologists must obtain a doctorate in clinical neuropsychology or neuropsychology. Neuropsychologists handle responsibilities like running brain scans, performing cognitive tests and assessing brain injury patients. Becoming a neuropsychologist is a long and challenging process. Nevertheless, it’s all worth it in the end.
4. Clinical Psychologist
A clinical psychologist’s job is similar to that of a school psychologist. Individuals must obtain a master’s and doctorate degree specializing in the field to qualify for this position. They may earn as much as $87,015 in average salary. Clinical psychologists typically work in government sectors, universities and colleges. They may also work in for-profit companies. These professionals perform tasks like conducting interviews and tests and coming up with treatment plans that do not include medication.
5. Forensic Psychologist
Forensic psychologists may earn up to $60,000 in average annual salary. These professionals work with the legal community. They may become jury consultants or expert witnesses. They may also work as criminal profilers and victim advocates. Those with a master’s degree can earn as much as $40,000 per year while doctorate degree graduates can make as much as $70,000 annually. The longer these professionals practice, the higher their salary goes. In fact, those who work in this field for 20 years or more can make as much as $102,920 per year.