Postgraduate courses in psychology for diverse career prospects

Do you have an interest in furthering your studies in psychology but feel uncertain about your options? If you’re passionate about helping others or are simply fascinated by the field, there are many psychology-related postgraduate courses in the market.

A postgraduate degree in the field doesn’t mean you’re limited to a career that entails seeing patients – not if you want to, at least. 

Depending on your interests and goals, a postgraduate degree in psychology can pave the way for you to branch into research, become a counsellor or clinical psychologist or help individuals or organisations work more effectively, depending on the speciality pursued.

Here are some of your postgraduate options in the field:

Master’s in Business Psychology and/or Industrial or Organisational (I/O) Psychology

Some universities combine elements of business psychology and I/O psychology into their programme, or offer them as separate courses.

The application of I/O psychology may be more granular in the workplace, while business psychology focuses on the broader aspects of the application of psychology in the business setting.

For instance, the University of Queensland notes that their business psychology programme “will equip you with the skills required to become a consultant specialising in the use of psychology to enhance the productivity and effectiveness of individuals, teams and organisations, while improving the quality of working life”. 

It is designed for individuals who are interested in using psychological theory and knowledge in business, without seeking registration as a psychologist.

Meanwhile, their organisational psychology course will help students understand behaviour in organisational settings by systematically studying individual, group and processes. 

Students will develop knowledge and skills that can be applied to the development of an organisation’s human resources to enhance motivation, performance and satisfaction. 

Master’s in Clinical Psychology

The American Psychological Association notes the following: 

“Clinical psychology is the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice.”

The programme is typically two-years long. Expect to complete clinical placements as well as a research project.

Upon successful completion, you’ll be equipped to work in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of psychological disorders. Graduates with a clinical psychology degree can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals to schools.

PhD in Psychology

If your interest lies in research, a PhD in the field is in the books. 

The programme is typically designed to equip students with the opportunity to conduct research in different areas of psychology, and develop the research skills and knowledge for teaching and research positions.

Apart from an academic career, graduates can also be employed in senior leadership positions across organisations, research laboratories, to name a few.

There are many postgraduate courses in psychology, all of which can open the door to numerous career opportunities. Spend some time exploring your interests and career goals to help you decide which programme to choose.