Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of jobs will studying Psychology prepare me for?
Studies have shown that one of the skills most valued by employers is interpersonal skill; the ability to work well with other people as clients and co-workers. An undergraduate degree in Psychology documents your knowledge about human behavior. See the tab to the right labeled Entry-Level Jobs for specific jobs well suited to psychology graduates. In addition, an undergraduate degree in Psychology prepares you for advanced study in Psychology and other fields (see the tab to the right labeled Psychology as a Pre-Professional Degree). Master's level psychologists can become licensed as counselors in Louisiana and many other states. They can also teach, often at Community Colleges. Doctoral level psychologists can be licensed for independent practice and they can pursue academic or industrial careers.
2. How much do Psychologists earn?
That will depend upon the employment setting and the level of education. Doctoral level Psychologists in university settings can currently expect entering salaries in the upper forty thousand range for nine-month appointments, with additional income possible for Summer work. Salary increases with experience. Psychologists in non-academic settings may enjoy higher incomes. The national median salary for the occupation of psychologist is $72,000 per year.
3. How long does it take to become a Psychologist?
Our undergraduate program is designed to be completed in four years. Some students, particularly those that are working their way through school, take longer. Most Master's programs take an additional two years. Most Doctoral programs take at least an additional four years. To be licensed for independent practice as a professional Psychologist one must have doctoral degree although some individuals with Master's degrees get licensed as Counselors or work under the supervision of licensed Psychologists.
4. What is special about SLU's Psychology Program?
One of the most important features of SLU's psychology program is the access that the students have to faculty. At many universities graduate students teach the introductory courses; at SLU they are taught by faculty. In addition, all Psychology undergraduate majors have the opportunity to get hands on experience doing research with members of the faculty.
Qualified students are eligible for an Honors Diploma in Psychology. This degree involves taking certain Honors level courses and a mentorship in Psychology research as described on page 236 in the SLU General Catalog.
5. How can I get other questions I have answered?
Please explore the departmental website. You will find important information there. As you explore the Department website, you will learn of the specialty areas of the Psychology faculty, and their phone numbers and email addresses. Any of them, too, would be happy to answer your questions.
