Psychology

What is it?

Psychology is the scientific study of why people behave as they do. You don’t always know the answers – but asking the questions is fascinating. And it can help people too.

 

A psychologist looks at how people learn, think, feel, behave and act. You explore how the mind works and what makes people want (or not want) to do things.

 

You could be a clinical psychologist in the NHS, working with people who have mental or physical health problems to make them feel better.

 

You could work in a school, helping children get the most from their education. Or in a big company supporting the workforce. Or as a forensic psychologist, helping solve crimes.

 

As you may know, psychologists are different from psychiatrists, who also work in mental health. To be a psychiatrist you’ll need to study medicine first.

 

What are the good bits?

• Meeting a wide variety of people
• Interesting work
• Rewarding – you help people feel better about themselves
• Wide range of jobs

What about pay?

£19,000 – £89,000

 

What skills and interests do I need?

• Caring personality, good at communicating
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Thoughtful and able to reflect
• Patient, dedicated and determined

What qualifications/training will I need?

After GCSEs you need to stay on at school or go to college to study A levels or AVCEs. You then study for three years at university. To be a clinical psychologist you need to study for another three years.