Psychology is relevant to almost any human endeavour, which means a psychology degree, or some complementary psychology studies, are relevant not only for traditional psychology careers, but for a wide range of careers. For example, there are psychologists designing cockpits for NASA, computer software interfaces, personnel selection systems, or age-appropriate toys; psychologists develop market research strategies, or train people in a variety of settings.
Traditional careers in psychology:
- Clinical Psychologist-assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions; design and assess treatment interventions; be involved in research, teaching and supervision; promote psychological health
- Clinical Neuropsychologist-assess and treat people with a wide range of brain injuries or disorders; design and assess treatment interventions; be involved in research, teaching and supervision; promote brain health
- Industrial and Organisational Psychologist-recruit and select personnel; design and evaluate behavioural training programs; develop leadership and management skills; optimise job design, performance, and workplace culture; foster employee wellbeing and work-life balance
- Educational and Developmental Psychologist, School Psychologist-assess developmental, learning, and behavioural difficulties; design and evaluate interventions; promote positive development
- Sport Psychologist-work with athletes and teams, addressing the wide range of psychological factors associated with sports performance (e.g., goal focus, team building, stress management, communication skills)
- Health Psychologist-assess community health issues; design, implement, and assess public-health and behaviour-change programs; promote health behaviours
- Forensic Psychologist-conduct forensic interviews; provide psychological assessments; give evidence in court proceedings,/li>
Please note these traditional career paths often require postgraduate studies and registration as a psychologist.
Non-traditional careers in psychology:
Public sector
- Government agencies
- CSIRO
- Australian Bureau of Statistics
- Federal and State Police Forces
Not-for-profit sector
- Mental health, addiction and disability support services
- Community and welfare services
- Children, youth and parenting services
- Charities
Private sector
- Corporate business
- Banks and financial service providers
- Professional service firms
- Market research, marketing, public relations, and advertising firms; consumer goods companies
- Employment services, and industrial relations
Education sector