Psychology Career Goals

A bachelor’s degree in psychology can augment one’s occupation or provide career options all its own. Potential employers value many of the skills needed to acquire an undergraduate degree. Moreover, one could attend graduate school to earn a master’s or doctorate degree. My own educational journey is allowing me the opportunity to develop further the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the mental health field, be it with an undergraduate degree or to pursue a more advanced degree. Two occupations in particular, a Social and Human Service Assistant and a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker, highlight the requirements a degree in psychology offers.
Landrum and Davis (2014) list a number of skills that employers look for

An SHSA also requires knowledge of psychology, customer service, the English language, counseling, and clerical procedures. Moreover, an SHSA should be skilled at active listening, serving others, being socially astute, speaking, writing, problem solving, critical thinking, and be able to think deductively and inductively. Activities of an SHSA involve gathering, documenting, and recording information; organizing and planning work activities; communicating with co-workers; evaluating information; making decisions; thinking creatively; and training others. Work context requires contact with others either face to face, on the phone, or e-mail; dealing with unpleasant or angry customers at times; resolve conflict, and be able to work indoors and outdoors. Furthermore, the job of an SHSA requires considerable preparation including a bachelor’s degree, several years of experience and on the job training or vocational training. The job can be routine and detail oriented; involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people; as well as starting and finishing projects, leading people, making decisions, and taking risks. An SHSA needs to be honest, dependable, compassionate, self-controlled, and cooperative; as well as value relationships, support, and

Employment trends for an SHSA are considered bright with average wages of $32,000 per year. For further information, one may consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Personally, I need to complete a bachelor’s degree and gain experience in the field to start a career as an SHSA. However, as I plan to acquire a Master’s degree, I do not believe I will pursue a career in the field, unless, of course, I am unsuccessful in graduate