Entry-Level Careers in Psychology

While earning a bachelor's degree in psychology does not confer the title of "psychologist" (a psychologist is someone with an advanced degree in psychology), it does open the door to many entry-level positions, especially those involving "people skills." The training students receive at the bachelor's level in psychology at the UMass Lowell fosters development of critical thinking and writing skills, analytical skills, research skills and communication skills. These skills can be used in a wide variety of work environments. Some of the possibilities are listed below:

  • Business
  • Community Service
  • Criminal Justice
  • Education
  • Human Resources
  • Health Care
  • Mental Health Services
  • Politics
  • Public Policy
  • Program Development
  • Recreation and Travel
  • Research
  • Social Work
  • Technical Writing
  • Vocational Rehabilitation

The website for the American Psychological Association (APA) contains excellent information about the field of psychology, including careers. Be sure to check links about resources specifically tailored for the bachelor's level graduate seeking to find a job and further their career. Another helpful resource provided by the APA, "Occupations of Interest to Students with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (pdf)," enumerates a large number of career options for students holding a bachelor's degrees in psychology. Additionally, we have prepared a Careers Workshop (ppt) slide series that provides specific data about our graduates, programs and assistance available to UMass Lowell students through Career Services, and much more!

Advanced Study

Many undergraduate psychology majors continue their education and pursue graduate study in psychology as well as in fields such as social work, law, medicine, and business. Our department at the University of Massachusetts Lowell is home to two psychology graduate programs: a graduate program leading to a Master of Arts degree in Community Social Psychology and a graduate program leading to a Master of Science degree in Autism Studies. The APA website mentioned above contains a wealth of resources for students interested in pursuing an advanced degree in psychology. We have developed a presentation that may be useful as you consider Graduate Study (ppt). This slide series has provided the basis for workshops for undergraduates that includes helpful tips about finding the right graduate program, application essentials, funding, and many other important topics as you plan for your future as a UMass Lowell graduate who aspires to a masters or doctoral program.