Research psychologists should be able to do detailed, independent work requiring oral, written, and quantitative skills. The baccalaureate program provides a diverse curriculum in general psychology with opportunities for specialization. The BA in Psychology provides an excellent liberal education and is a strong supplement to any vocational or professional training program. While the BA in Psychology is not sufficient for a person to work as a professional psychologist, there are a number of jobs related to psychology open to bachelor's degree holders which may be entered without additional education. Some examples are employment interviewers, personnel workers, market researchers, and management trainees.
Graduate work is required for all professional work in psychology.
Increased public awareness and interest in the helping professions and mental health fields could lead to an expansion of employment opportunities for psychologists. In general, the employment outlook for bachelor's degree psychology majors is best for those willing to consider career opportunities in fields such as banking, business, insurance, retailing, management, personnel relations, and government. Persons majoring in psychology will increase their career options by completing a second major or a minor to complement their academic background in psychology. To further enhance their career options, students are encouraged to broaden their experience through volunteer work, internships, and cooperative education. One-third of all professional psychologists are employed in colleges and universities as instructors, researchers, and counselors.