What Careers In Psychology Or Counseling Are Ideal For A Candidate With A Bachelor's Degree?

The psychological industry is a diverse and evolving field dedicated to understanding the connection between the mind, mental health, and the body. Although many careers in psychology require a master's degree, some careers accept those with a bachelor's degree. If you've graduated with a bachelor's or are looking at career options, you can explore a few avenues below.

What careers in psychology are available for those with a bachelor’s degree?

Careers that require a psychology degree are in high demand, depending on the industry, and can vary in focus. Many people with a bachelor's degree in psychology graduate and look for jobs in human services, counseling, and advocacy. They may provide career counseling or work for a non-profit organization servicing those needing psychological services. 

Below are a few career paths professionals with a bachelor's degree in psychology can take. This list is not exhaustive, so if you're not interested in the following careers, research careers in your area to discover which options might best fit your skills and preferences. 

Counseling or mental health professional

Some people who enter the field of psychology hope to become counselors or therapists. However, these careers often require a master's degree or higher. A few counseling positions may accept people with a bachelor's degree. However, these types of "counseling" positions are not under a license, so they may not be intensive. 

A few options for counseling and mental health service jobs include:

Having a career in one of these areas with a bachelor's degree may be beneficial if you're looking to gain experience while working toward your master's degree and looking for a job afterward. 

Case managers and human services professionals

Case managers assist clients with daily responsibilities and survival needs, such as housing, eating, and finding shelter. They can also help clients by empowering them to use their strengths and achieve their goals. 

As a case manager, you might work in a social services organization to help others identify and meet their needs. You may work with clients with substance use disorders, mental illness, or other health concerns. Case management often involves helping connect people with the resources they need, like vocational training or mental health services. A case manager might check in with their clients often, help them schedule appointments, and remind them to take their medications. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

These professionals can also work in a welfare-to-work program and might collaborate with vocational rehabilitation counselors and facilities. To be a case manager, you may be required to understand local resources and programs and have a degree in psychology.

Developmental psychologists

Those interested in developmental psychology might find working with children fulfilling and engaging. In this line of work, you can work with children living with developmental disorders, learning disorders, mental illness, neurodivergent identities, and other identities. Exact roles and responsibilities can vary depending on where you choose to work. However, your focus may be on supporting the children in their treatment plans, schooling, and educational needs while keeping them safe. 

Vocational rehabilitation counselors

Vocational rehabilitation involves working with clients facing challenges that have affected their ability to work. Due to disabilities or mental health challenges, some people struggle to find work they can perform consistently that ensures their well-being. Vocational counselors help these individuals receive job training, placement, and interview support. In some cases, these positions involve funding for clients' schooling, accommodations, or job-related expenses. 

With a bachelor's degree in psychology, you can work in vocational rehabilitation services to help others fulfill career goals and gain independence. Studies show that vocational rehabilitation services are helpful for people living with disabilities who are looking to find work, so there is evidence that this job does make a difference.

Psychology education or teaching roles

As a teacher, you can educate young people or adults on empowering themselves and embracing their strengths. Check the requirements for teachers in your state to see what options are available. Depending on your state, you may be qualified to work in various positions at an elementary, middle, or high school with a bachelor's in psychology, including a teaching position. 

Teachers must often be empathetic, compassionate, and kind to students, traits many people working in psychology value. In addition, you can create a positive learning environment and a sense of community, helping students succeed. Teaching psychology or similar subjects to students allows you to directly apply your knowledge and inspire others to pursue the same field. 

Research assistants

While it’s typically required that you have a master’s degree or higher to conduct research and lead research teams, those with a bachelor’s degree in psychology may be able to work as research assistants. This type of role can provide valuable experience in the field as well as a source of income while you work toward a master’s degree, if desired.

Psychology writers

A psychology degree can equip you with the writing knowledge to offer insights through the written word. Suppose you're interested in a writing career. In that case, you might write books about human behavior, articles online, or work as a ghostwriter to help others ensure their content is psychologically correct. 

There are often opportunities to write for established publications if you have expertise in human behavior and writing. It may also be advantageous if you have personal experience with mental health challenges because you can offer a perspective from personal experience.

Other jobs and careers in psychology

While several options are listed here, these are not the only careers related to psychology available to someone with a bachelor’s degree in this field. If interested, you might also explore career paths slightly outside of but still relevant to this field. For example, those in marketing and user experience (UX) design could benefit from a psychology degree, as it may help them better reach or serve their target audience. Jobs in human resources could also be a good fit, since these roles involve working closely with people in a variety of challenging situations. In other words, it may help to think more broadly if you’re struggling to figure out what to do with a psychology degree.

Getting mental health support on your psychology career journey

As you navigate your career decisions, it can be helpful to care for your own mental health—particularly if you’re finding yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed along the way. Many therapists see a therapist themselves, and reaching out for support doesn't "take away" from your knowledge or expertise in your field. 

Online therapy for psychologists

If you have a busy schedule due to school, work, or other commitments, you might find it hard to fit in-person therapy appointments into your schedule. In cases like these, online therapy can be a more convenient alternative. A platform like BetterHelp allows you to work with a therapist virtually from the comfort of your home, which may save you time, and energy. In addition, many online therapists offer sessions outside of standard business hours, which can be valuable for those who spend their day working or attending classes. 

Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for treating mental health symptoms in many cases. Other studies have found that college students or busy young adults in particular may significantly benefit from this therapy format due to its convenience, lower cost, and flexibility.