PSYCHOLOGY

What can I do with a psychology degree?

A psychology degree provides you with a deep understanding of human behaviour, mental processes, and research methods, alongside valuable skills in analysis, communication, and critical thinking. Graduates use this foundation to pursue careers in healthcare, counselling, research, education, and many other sectors, or as a stepping stone to professional qualifications like clinical psychology or psychiatry.

Career paths in psychology

Psychology graduates work in a diverse range of roles across health, education, business, and research. Common areas include:

  • Clinical and Counselling Psychology: assistant psychologist, mental health support worker, therapy roles
  • Healthcare and Social Care: healthcare assistant, occupational therapist, rehabilitation specialist
  • Research and Academia: research assistant, data analyst, university teaching roles
  • Education and Youth Work: educational psychologist assistant, learning support, youth counselling

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

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 97% of Psychology graduates from Hull are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduating? Early-career salaries from Hull graduates typically start at approximately £25,000, 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, including:

  • Masters degrees in Clinical, Educational, or Occupational Psychology
  • Doctorate programmes in Clinical or Counselling Psychology
  • Professional qualifications in Psychiatry, Social Work, or Therapy

Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?

Yes - a psychology degree is an excellent foundation for medical training in psychiatry. While you’ll need specialise and complete further training, the degree provides essential knowledge of mental health and human behaviour that supports this career path. Read more in our 'Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?' FAQ.

Aaron Hall Psychology student sat in front of a computer showing a medical scan of a brain

Explore our Psychology degree

Ready to understand how people think, feel and act - and why it matters? At Hull, our psychology degree blends rigorous science with practical experience from the start. You’ll investigate the brain, behaviour and mental health, while gaining real skills through labs, research and meaningful community engagement. Study in a place that champions curiosity, collaboration and almost 100 years of academic excellence.

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97% employability (Psychology) UK domicile full-time first-degree leavers; Higher Education Graduate Outcomes statistics, for the academic year 2022/23, published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency June 2025.

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Discover Uni. Correct as of October 2025.