How to Get a Job with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

By eHow Careers & Work Editor

Rate: (4 Ratings)

Working your degree is critical to both long-term and short-term career success. Although a bachelor's degree in psychology is not a professional degree, it has the benefit of flexibility and tremendous opportunities for a customized career plan! Psychology majors give students some very strong language and critical thinking skills, research and statistical tools, interpersonal skills, and training in ethics and values. Together, these skills and characteristics can lead a psychology major towards many unique and exciting career paths.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

List Your Key Skills, Abilities, and Qualities

Step1
Highlight your critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Step2
Highlight your core knowledge subjects.
Step3
Highlight any examples of interpersonal and language skills.
Step4
Highlight any key research methods and statistical analysis skills.
Step5
Highlight your research on subjects in ethics and values.
Step6
Highlight your computer skill level, knowledge, and ability to learn new programs.

Identify Ways to Put Your Skills Into Action

Step1
Consider a variety of industries you have a personal interest in outside the realm of psychology.
Step2
Consider top and mid-level management, personnel training, marketing and sales, real estate, and market research.
Step3
Consider additional training options and certification to specialize in a field.
Step4
Consider an administrative job to get your foot in the door with a company you can grow with.
Step5
Consider positions as a social worker or in nonprofit organization in your community. Entry-level assistants or internships are great opportunities for gaining experience.

Network and Learn From Mentors

Step1
Contact your professors for tips and general guidance on where to pursue both short and long-term careers in your fields of choice.
Step2
Correspond with any college mentors to help you outline your strengths and weaknesses.
Step3
Find ways to improve your "self-marketing" if needed.
Step4
Be open to constructive and honest feedback to help you maintain a clear perspective.

Begin a Career Search Online

Step1
Visit both local job boards and networks and national sites such as Monster and CareerBuilder on the Web.
Step2
Review job descriptions of sample positions you have an interest in.
Step3
Create a customized cover letter that fits you into the position.
Step4
Update your resume. Use sites such as Jobstar and JobWeb to help you create the best version.
Step5
Create your resume and submit the cover letter! Be sure to include any references or referral mentions.

Tips & Warnings

  • Remember to keep your resume current and relevant to each job you apply for.
  • It's a good idea to review job descriptions in a variety of industries to determine your skill level and possibilities for growth.
  • Getting feedback from your mentors and past professors is a great way to match yourself with the right industry.
  • Remember to send thank you cards or notes to all potential employers after the initial interview.

Comments

| View All Comments
redfear

redfear said

Flag This Comment

on 1/26/2008 Pretty basic job search information, not specific to degree in psych.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article: How to Get a Job with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

eHow Careers & Work Editor

Related Ads

Careers & Work

acousticgroupie
Meet Kristen Fischer eHow’s Careers & Work Expert.