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Psychologists apply the scientific study of the mind and behaviour to solving real life problems.
You could work: 9am to 5pm; flexibly
Your day-to-day tasks will depend on your specialism. For example:
You could work at a school, in an NHS or private hospital, in a prison, in a therapy clinic, in the community or at a client's business.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
You can get into this job through:
You'll need to:
If you are a graduate of a subject other than psychology, or you have a psychology degree that is not accredited by the BPS you may be able to complete an approved psychology conversion course.
Once you have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership you must complete an accredited postgraduate qualification in your chosen psychology specialism.
Psychology specialisms include:
You can find out more about the different types of postgraduate training required for each specialism from The British Psychological Society.
Getting work experience during your studies will give you an advantage. Your university careers service can help you find year placement, volunteering and internship opportunities.
Competition for postgraduate training in all specialisms is strong. You'll need a first or upper second class degree, and evidence of excellent research skills to apply. You'll also need relevant work experience. In some specialisms this could mean a minimum of 12 months working in a relevant role before you begin a postgraduate course.
You'll usually need:
You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary experience in sectors like education, health or care, before you apply for a course.
You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
You'll need to:
You can join The British Psychological Society for professional development opportunities.
You'll find more advice on careers and training in psychology from The British Psychological Society.
Your career path will depend on your psychology specialism.
There are opportunities to move into supervisory or management positions in all branches of psychology.
You could move into teaching, academic research, policy or consultancy work.
Some professional psychologists become self-employed and run their own private practice.
The British Psychological Society (BPS) and Health Careers have more information on careers in psychology.