Differences in Psychology Degree Programs

Thursday, 31 May 2007

When enrolling in psychology degree programs it is very beneficial to have an idea in mind of the career that you are looking to pursue. There are many differences in careers depending on which of the psychology degree programs you choose to pursue. First, you will want to weigh the differences in getting a doctorate versus just a master’s in psychology. Doctoral psychology degree programs usually involve five to seven years of graduate study.

One of the main differences between that and a master’s in psychology is that a master’s usually only takes two years of graduate study. With a master’s degree in psychology you can work in group counseling practices, clinics, or programs involving certain people groups such as drug abusers or abuse victims, or employee assistance programs.

Once you have weighed the differences between a doctorate and a master’s you will also need to decide which type of degree to pursue. Here again there are many differences depending on which of the psychology degree programs appeals most to you.

Pursuing psychology degree programs as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) has some differences from other careers. It is a traditional degree that gives equal importance to research and clinical training. The programs for a PhD are highly competitive, and some programs select as few as six students a year. You may have to continually reapply before getting selected.

Some of the differences of pursuing psychology degree programs as a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) stem from the fact that it is a newer professional degree. PsyDs focus more on clinical practices with only a little research training, and the programs tend to be less competitive than those of a PhD.

If working in the education field is more your thing, you might find the differences of an EdD more in your taste. These degrees are usually offered by an education department. Earning this degree will give you expertise in relating psychology to education and/or counseling.

No matter which of the differences appeal to you, you should research it thoroughly before enrolling in a degree program. Knowing exactly what you want before you start can help you to make good career choices, helping you get to where you want to be in the quickest and most efficient way possible. For the next several years after deciding on your psychology degree program, a good part of your life and job choices will stem directly from your career path.

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