Why Psychology Degrees Are on the Rise
More and more students are picking psychology as their major.
In 2023, over 140,000 students in the U.S. graduated with a psychology degree. That's a significant increase from 2004, when only about 87,000 students did the same.
Why the Surge?
Experts believe the trend is driven by:
- Open conversations about mental health among younger generations.
- The influence of social media and pop culture, making psychology seem intriguing and vital.
The Reality Check
However, psychology degrees don't always lead to high-paying jobs:
- Early career earnings: Around $45,000 per year.
- Mid-career earnings: Up to $70,000 per year.
Moreover, many students might not fully understand what a psychology degree entails. It's not just about helping people; it involves a lot of research. And if they aim to be a clinician, additional training is required.
A Personal Journey: Dr. Azadeh Weber
Dr. Weber graduated with a psychology degree but struggled to find a job in her field. She pivoted to tech sales, then returned to school to become a clinical psychologist. Now, she earns $200,000 a year working part-time.
She loves her job and the time it gives her with her family. But she admits she might be making the same money in tech sales, working full-time.
Is a Psychology Degree Worth It?
It depends. If you're passionate about understanding and helping people, it can be rewarding. But if you're only in it for the money, you might be disappointed.