Why Major in Psychology?

Below are some of the different career paths you can pursue with a degree in Psychology from Marquette. Visit the "Careers Related to Psychology" page for additional information on career opportunities.

Graduate School

The Department of Psychology's undergraduate curriculum prepares students for graduate study in experimental psychology and allied fields (e.g., developmental, social, cognitive, biological, neuroscience), clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and social work. Other majors use the psychology undergraduate degree as a springboard to medical school, law school, dental school, or other graduate training programs.

Employment Opportunities with a BA in Psychology

Students often choose to not pursue an advanced degree. Numerous and varied career opportunities are open to students who obtain an undergraduate degree in psychology. Students with a bachelor's degree in psychology will find jobs in state or local rehabilitation and welfare agencies, civil service jobs, or positions in institutions that provide care for people with physical and emotional disabilities. They might go onto careers in business (management, public relations, marketing), pharmaceuticals, communications, careers involved in delivering mental health services to people in need (such as at clinics, hospitals, schools), and careers in research.

Teaching

Many teachers study psychology as a major. Elementary/middle education majors may choose psychology as a second major. Middle/secondary education majors who choose psychology as a second major will follow a specific psychology curriculum that meets state requirements for certification for teaching psychology as a primary subject. These students should also consider the Broad Field Social Studies License Extension. Undecided about what to do? Talk with your advisor!

The advising process for our majors is an important aspect of how they decide which of the above options, or the many other options, to pursue in their future. Advisors can help students understand what it takes to get into graduate schools, what employment opportunities exist for majors, and so forth.

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