Not everyone who pursues a bachelor's degree in psychology will continue on to a master's or doctorate program and become a psychologist. Charles Brewer, a psychology professor at Furman University, told CNN Money that students should not assume that a bachelor's degree in psychology automatically means the student will become a psychologist.
Many psychology undergraduates go on to other fields that vary based on whether they earn a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts degree. Science degrees generally focus on math and laboratory classes, while the arts degree emphasize counseling.
Forensic psychologists are an important part of the criminal justice system. They determine a defendant's competency before a trial and testify when necessary. Other forensic psychologists work with abuse victims and survivors. Some undergraduate programs have concentrations in forensic psychology, but many practitioners continue their education with a master's degree.
A master's or doctorate degree in clinical psychology prepares you for work in a variety of settings, including government and school positions or private practice. Clinical psychologists also perform research to further the science. This sub-specialty has the largest number of practitioners, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many clinical psychologists counsel abuse victims, couples dealing with problems, people who are grief-stricken and others in need of guidance.
Psychopharmacology is an area of study that deals with the appropriate use of medications to treat mental disorders. These conditions include depression disorders and schizophrenia. Even though there is no medical specialist board to license psychopharmacology professionals, standards dictate that practitioners must have at least a master's degree, if not a doctorate, in order to practice. Graduate programs involve clinical experience.