Are you interested in majoring in psychology at college but concerned about future regrets? Let’s explore this major to see the pros and cons and whether it could be right for you.
Psychology is a good major for certain groups of people. It is also a relatively easy major. However, be aware that few graduates go on to become psychologists and other majors produce better graduate employment results.
An Easy Major in College
Psychology attracts students in large numbers because it deals with things we’re all interested in: thoughts and behaviour. You’ll find that much of the material is relatable, fascinating at times, and easy to digest.
As a major in college, psychology is relatively easy. Although it is for all-rounders, students only face significant challenges if they intend to become professional psychologists.
As I’ve written previously, psychology is comparable to other mainstream degrees in difficulty but “may be challenging if you dislike math or writing essays” (Source: Is Psychology a Hard Major or Easy?).
Compared to demanding fields like engineering or biochemistry, psychology is less intense. That is, unless you want to go further and become a psychollogist. Advanced subjects such as neuroscience and complex statistical methods mainly appear at a graduate level.
Is Psychology Right for Me?
Too many people choose to major in psychology at college. The ones who should be doing it fall into a few different categories.
1. You’re an aspiring psychologist
If you want to become a psychologist, an undergraduate psychology degree is a must. You need a bachelor degree followed by advanced study, usually to at least a master’s level. Be prepared for a strong emphasis on scientific method, research, and statistics in advanced courses.
2. You aim to work with people
If you’re unsure about your career but interested in working with people, psychology is a good starting point. It offers broad insights into human behaviour and interactions. Start your degree with an open mind, and explore subjects from different faculties. You can refine your career goals as you go.
3. Psychology studies are part of a plan
If you have a specific career in mind, psychology pairs well with other fields. You can combine it with areas like business (especially HR or marketing), education, or health studies (such as social work). It’s a smart move to start your degree with this in mind and choose complementary subjects.
Hard to Start Your Career
Entering the labour market with a Bachelor of Psychological Science or similar degree is challenging. You’ll be applying for specific jobs with a generalist qualification.
Psychology doesn’t offer a clear career path like nursing or accounting. Most psychology graduates don’t land roles as registered psychologists. Instead, they often work in areas like marketing, human resources, or community services.
However, the degree’s flexibility can help if you pair it with further studies or practical experience. Graduates who gain postgraduate qualifications have a clearer path to more rewarding jobs, especially in counselling or human resources.
Source: Miles Lander at Postgraduate Futures, Psychology Careers After a Bachelor Degree
Money Can Be OK
Psychology graduates generally do well in monetary terms over the long term. They benefit from a solid set of skills and a versatile degree.
The pay may be low at first, but psychology graduates have long-term earning potential. Entry-level positions may not bring in big money, especially if you’re not working in a related field. But with specialisation, your salary can grow significantly.
Some of the better-paying opportunities (in Australian dollars) are:
- Clinical psychologist: Average salary ~$100,000 per year
- Organisational psychologist: $80,000–$120,000 annually
- Human resources manager: $90,000–$150,000 per year
- Market research analyst: $70,000–$100,000 annually
- Counsellor in private practice: Income varies, typically $70,000+ after gaining experience
For more details, visit Mallory Careers.
Fields like clinical psychology and HR pay well once you have the qualifications and experience. Many psychology-related jobs offer not just good pay but also meaningful work. That’s a key reason why many graduates feel satisfied despite early challenges.