Exploring Diverse Career Paths in Applied Psychology
Studying psychology can open many doors for students, as the field is wide-reaching. Many people think of clinical psychologists working directly with patients, but these vital professionals are not the only type of psychologists. A related field of study is called applied psychology. It deals with issues of human behavior as they manifest in organizations and society.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota provides an online Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology program for undergraduate students and adult learners interested in pursuing their dreams at an institution with Lasallian Catholic values as part of its mission. Here, we discuss what applied psychology entails and potential career paths to consider.
Understanding Applied Psychology
Applied psychology is the study of human behavior and emotions in everyday social interactions. The “applied” aspect differentiates this discipline from scientific psychology, which involves extensive research and can be more theoretical. That said, applied psychology is broad, with multiple subspecialties, including clinical psychology, counseling, forensic psychology, and medicinal psychology.
Applied psychologists work in a range of sectors, including business, law, engineering, and education. The kind of environment in which an applied psychologist works dictates their responsibilities. For instance, an applied psychologist working at a business to support organizational success will evaluate workplace behavior to spot weaknesses and help leaders improve the culture.
As many organizations respond to the call for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), many applied psychologists focus on problematic normative behaviors and how they stifle DEI initiatives. Key topics include racism and sexism in the workplace, as well as behaviors that foster toxic work environments.
Career Paths in Applied Psychology
One of the main draws of psychology and counseling programs is the job opportunities available upon graduation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of psychologists in general is projected to grow six percent through 2032, faster than the average growth for all jobs. Additionally, opportunities are available across many industries, from marketing to technology to criminal justice.
The following are some career paths for individuals with a background in applied psychology:
Aviation Psychologist
- A unique opportunity for applied psychologists is a career as an aviation psychologist. This role is two-fold. First, aviation psychologists use their expertise to assist airlines in evaluating potential recruits, including pilots and flight attendants. Airlines want to ensure the individuals they hire to operate planes and help passengers have the mental facilities necessary to complete duties in a fast-paced and often high-stress work environment.
- Another responsibility of an aviation psychologist is offering counseling services to individuals who experience trauma related to an aviation incident. These could be survivors of plane crashes or people with loved ones who died in a plane crash.
Career Counselor
- Career counselors help individuals find a career path that aligns with their skills, and then guide them in pursuing that path. They work in colleges and high schools, helping prepare students with the skills needed to secure a job, such as resume writing and interviewing.
Consumer Psychologists
- Consumer psychologists — also referred to as customer or marketing psychologists — analyze consumer demands and the factors that may influence their purchasing decisions. Serving marketing teams, they leverage market research and their knowledge of human behavior and emotions to help organizations present products and services in such a way that engages the target audience.
Probation Officer
- The probation officer works with formerly incarcerated people to help them adjust as they rejoin society. Individuals on parole must meet conditions following their release. Probation officers ensure they fulfill these requirements, such as making court appearances. They may also offer substance abuse counseling.
Human Resources Specialist
- The human resources department is responsible for locating the most talented recruits who fit the company culture. In addition to interviewing potential employees and reviewing resumes, they guide personnel through hiring processes and orientation. Human resources specialists also draft office guidelines on workplace harassment and similar topics and may respond to internal complaints and concerns from team members.
Recreational Therapist
- Like physical therapists, recreational therapists help patients manage symptoms of physical illnesses or injuries. In this role, treatment plans consist of arts and crafts, music, and other activities. Recreational therapists get to know patients, understand their interests, and develop session goals. The job also may involve assisting patients to navigate mental health concerns, such as anxiety.
Study Applied Psychology at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Take your first step toward the many career opportunities for applied psychologists by applying for the online bachelor’s degree program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. The online program leverages the most updated research and instructional techniques in organizational and applied social psychology to prepare students for careers in various fields. Additionally, students who are planning to pursue our MA in Counseling and Psychological Services degree program to become licensed therapists can save time and money by taking up to 6 graduate credits (2 courses) while still in the bachelor program.
Ideal for working professionals looking to complete their degrees, the accelerated bachelor’s degree program provides students with the same student-centered and relationship-driven Catholic education they find in our in-person programs. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private, Lasallian Catholic university offering in-person and online programs at an undergraduate campus in Winona, MN, and two campuses for adult learners in Minneapolis and Rochester, MN. Schedule a visit or apply for admission today. You also can request information to learn more about the B.S. in Applied Psychology program.
