What Could You Do with a Master's in Psychology?

Although some learners choose to pursue a master's degree in psychology to prepare themselves for future doctoral study, others choose this academic path to help prepare themselves to seek psychology employment opportunities outside of private clinical practice. You may be surprised to learn that there are potential career paths in the field of psychology that require a master's degree instead of a doctoral degree for entry—and in this article, we will discuss some of them.

Master's in Psychology: Potential Career Paths

In many states, anyone who practices psychology or uses the title "psychologist" must be licensed. And in all states, anyone who practices independently must be licensed where they work. Importantly, one of the typical requirements for licensure is holding a doctorate in psychology (PsyD or PhD). Nevertheless, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, exceptions to these requirements and opportunities exist for individuals with master's-level training in topics specific to understanding the relationships between people and workplaces.¹

So what career paths could you pursue with a master's in psychology?

Marriage and Family Therapists

Marriage and family therapists help people manage problems with their family and other relationships. They may treat individuals, couples or families. MFTs typically do the following:²

• Help clients discuss their emotions and experiences
• Help clients process their reactions and adjust to difficult life changes
• Guide clients through the process of making decisions about their future
• Help clients develop strategies and skills to change their behavior and to cope with difficult situations
• Refer clients to other community resources/services (e.g., support groups or inpatient treatment facilities)

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) must hold a master's degree in psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a related mental health field, and all states require them to be licensed. Obtaining MFT licensure involves earning a master's degree, completing a state-specified number of hours of postdegree supervised clinical experience and passing a state examination—and then completing continuing education classes in order to retain the license.²

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors

Substance abuse counselors and behavioral disorder counselors, also known as addiction counselors, work with clients individually and in group sessions, teaching them to cope with stress and life's problems in ways that promote recovery. They also help clients rebuild their professional and personal relationships.³

Mental health counselors work with individuals, families, couples and groups who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and stress. They also help clients work through emotional health and relationship problems.³

Master's Degree Programs in Psychology: Skills and Knowledge

Learners pursuing the MA in Psychology program, which has a clinical focus, will also work to develop skills and knowledge in these additional categories:

• Assessment
• Intervention
• Supervision
• Consultation and Interprofessional/Interdisciplinary Skills

Take Your Education Further with CalSouthern University

A master's in psychology can also serve a steppingstone on the path to earning a doctorate.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Graduates of CalSouthern's MS and MA in Psychology degree programs are eligible to pursue a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). Learners in this 100% online PsyD program have the opportunity to explore clinical issues in psychology as well as the application of skills needed in psychology practice. The program takes an average of four to five years to complete, assuming full-time status,* with a curriculum comprising core courses, elective courses, a comprehensive exam and doctoral project courses.

* Time to degree completion can be shortened by accelerating completion of courses and through credits accepted in transfer.

Ready to pursue a graduate degree in psychology? Apply to CalSouthern today.

---

¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Psychologists," https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm (last visited 1/6/2025).

² Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Marriage and Family Therapists," https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm (last visited 1/6/2025).

³ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors," https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm (last visited 1/6/2025).

CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. CalSouthern does not accept applications from residents of Massachusetts, New York, and certain foreign countries.

REQ2097035 1/2025