Career paths in psychology
Psychology graduates work in a diverse range of roles. Common areas include:
Clinical and Counselling Psychology
Clinical and counselling roles focus on assessing and supporting individuals experiencing psychological distress, working under supervision or as part of multidisciplinary teams to promote wellbeing and recovery.
Roles include:
- Assistant Psychologist
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Therapy and Psychological Support Roles
Healthcare and Social Care
Healthcare and social care roles involve supporting individuals with physical, emotional, and psychological needs across hospital, community, and rehabilitation settings.
Roles include:
- Healthcare Assistant
- Occupational Therapist
- Rehabilitation Specialist
Research and Academia
Research and academic careers apply psychological theory and research methods to investigate human behaviour, contribute to evidence-based practice, and support teaching in higher education.
Roles include:
- Research Assistant
- Data Analyst
- University Teaching Roles
Education and Youth Work
Education and youth-focused roles support the learning, development, and emotional wellbeing of children and young people across schools, colleges, and community settings.
Roles include:
- Educational Psychologist Assistant
- Learning Support Practitioner
- Youth Counsellor
Alternative careers outside psychology
The transferable skills developed in a psychology degree open doors in many other fields, such as:
- Human Resources and Organisational Development
- Marketing, Advertising, and Consumer Research
- Social Services and Community Development
- Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice
- Business Consultancy and Training
- Education and Educational Support Services
- Sport, Exercise, and Performance Support
Skills you’ll gain
Studying psychology develops a broad skillset valued across sectors, including:
- Research design and data analysis
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Ethical awareness and professional conduct
- Statistical and IT proficiency
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
Graduate outcomes and salaries at Hull
Did you know that 95% of Psychology graduates from Hull are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduating?1 Early-career salaries from Hull graduates typically start at approximately £25,0002, with many progressing into specialist or senior roles after gaining experience or further qualifications.
Further Study Options
Many graduates continue with postgraduate study to specialise or qualify professionally.
Options include Masters degrees in areas such as Clinical, Educational, Occupational and Sport Psychology, as well as research degrees such as a PhD.
At Hull, you can progress to our MSc Clinical Applications of Psychology or our ClinPsyD Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Professional doctorate routes are also available in Clinical, Counselling, Educational and Sport Psychology, alongside professional qualifications in areas such as Social Work or Therapy.
Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?
A psychology degree won’t directly qualify you to become a psychiatrist - that requires medical training - but it does give you a strong grounding in mental health, research, and human behaviour. See the difference between psychology, psychiatry and psychotherapy here.
Can I go into clinical psychology with a psychology degree?
Yes, you can go into clinical psychology with a psychology degree. A BPS-accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology provides a recognised route into the profession and gives you a strong foundation in mental health, research, and human behaviour. At Hull, there is also a unique fast-track Doctorate in Clinical Psychology that accepts applications directly from the undergraduate programme, allowing you to progress into professional clinical training without spending years gaining additional work or voluntary experience.
