When we hear people talk about psychology as a career, what’s the first image that comes to mind? Odds are good you may be picturing the classic Freudian analyst at work, sitting in a chair while wearing a lot of tweed, silently nodding as they listen to a patient reclining on a couch talking about their childhood trauma. While that can be one (perfectly valid) professional outcome for someone with a psychology degree, that degree can also open doors to unexpected and rewarding career possibilities. If you’re interested in learning more about the human psyche and finding practical applications for that insight, Rio Salado College’s Associate in Arts (AA), Emphasis in Psychology degree program can give you the skills and knowledge you’re looking for.
What You’ll Learn
Rio Salado’s psychology program can give you a firm foundation in the theories, principles, and best practices of the field. You’ll learn about the importance of ethical standards in doing this work, and cultivate important “soft skills” like communication, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. The program will introduce you to research methods, statistics, social and behavioral sciences, offering a holistic perspective on how psychology interacts with and uses practices from “hard” sciences like mathematics and the natural sciences. While psychology often involves understanding and working with others, you’ll also learn how to apply your psychology skills toward your own personal and professional development.
What can I do with a Psychology Degree?
A psychology degree at Rio can be your first step toward a career in psychology, but there are several career options available to you beyond the social sciences. The combination of deep insight into human psychology and having a well-developed toolkit of interpersonal skills can make you an asset to many industries.
A psychology degree can prepare you to excel in roles like:
- Educational psychologist
- Criminal investigator
- Guidance counselor
- Human resources specialist
- Occupational therapist
- Professional coach
- Project manager
- Social worker
- Substance abuse counselor
- Research assistant
- Statistician
- Ergonomist
- Market research analyst
- Corporate trainer
- Disability case manager
This is just a small sample of the types of careers where a grounding in psychology is a big checkmark in the plus column.
What Does a Future in Psychology Look Like?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of the careers related to psychology like psychologists, social workers, and statisticians are projected to have faster than average job growth between now and 2034. That means more opportunities for employment and advancement in the field. While no line of work can be considered 100% “future-proof” with the spreading adoption of artificial intelligence across many industries, the human-centered focus and skills that psychology teaches you will continue to remain relevant in an increasingly digital world.
Save Time and Money
Rio Salado’s transfer credits are applicable to schools across the country. Check with the university you plan to transfer to in order to make sure your work at Rio will be accepted. Our psychology degree program aligns with the degree requirements for our transfer partners at ASU, NAU, and U of A. If you’re interested in pursuing a bachelor’s or higher degree in psychology, starting your academic journey at Rio allows you to complete your general education requirements at a much more affordable tuition than what you would pay at a four-year college.
Learn More
Interested in learning more about our psychology program? Check out our program page and complete the request for information at the bottom of the page.
Article by Austin Brietta