4 Benefits of Earning a Psychology Degree
The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) reports that the San Francisco Bay Area is in the middle of a severe mental healthcare provider shortage as of April 2025. To meet demand, the region needs over 8,000 more nonprescribing clinicians, such as therapists, and over 500 more psychiatrists. The situation at the state level is equally dire.
With such a large gap, millions of Californians likely battle anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and other mental health issues alone. For those interested in providing these individuals with the services they need, earning a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSCP) degree is an important step toward studying and understanding human behavior. Here’s what to expect from the process, as well as four benefits of a psychology degree.
What Does a Psychology Degree Program Entail?
At the master’s degree level, psychology degree programs typically take about 1 1/2 to two years to complete. During that time, students take classes on advanced psychotherapeutic techniques and may also complete practicums and field experiences to gain hands-on experience. In some advanced degree programs, hands-on experiences are optional.
Online vs. On-Campus Programs
The curriculum for online and on-campus psychology programs is typically the same. The main difference is that online programs often offer asynchronous lectures, which students can listen to when convenient. Online students can typically interact with their professors and peers through collaborative projects, discussion forums, and live online class sessions.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment requirements for master’s degrees in psychology vary between schools, but applicants should consider a few common requirements.
To enroll in a master’s degree in psychology, applicants typically must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree and provide official transcripts
- Meet the school’s GPA requirements
- Provide one or more professional references
- Have taken prerequisites in general psychology, abnormal psychology, or other fundamental subjects
Some programs may require students to have a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Similarly, some schools see a GPA of 3.0 or higher as competitive, but requirements vary by school.
What Will You Learn in a Psychology Degree Program?
A master’s degree in psychology often requires students to complete about 40 to 60 credit hours of classes. Programs that require more credits typically include classes on foundational topics, while those that require fewer may focus on higher-level skills.
Typically, a master’s degree in psychology includes classes on topics and skills such as:
- Psychopathology and the study of mental illness
- Psychopharmacology
- Ethical and legal considerations
- Mental health evaluation
- Consultation
- Psychotherapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Research methods
- Providing psychological services to individuals, groups, families, and/or communities
Additionally, many programs allow students to specialize in a specific area or topic, such as organizational or applied psychology. In addition to taking classes on these subjects, students may complete a practicum at a site aligned with their career goals.
4 Benefits of a Psychology Degree
Earning a master’s degree in psychology can be a great way for relatively new and experienced professionals alike to seek higher-level positions in the mental health field. Students also get the chance to prepare for further studies, gain experience and confidence, and build their support networks.
1. Range of Employment Opportunities
For many students, the main benefit of earning a psychology degree is preparing for roles such as therapist or counselor. Requirements vary by state, but these positions typically require a license or certification and, in some cases, a master’s degree. Some states may also require applicants to take specific classes.
However, such positions aren’t the only career possibilities available to professionals in the field of psychology. Graduates also often become:
- Senior human resources administrators
- Administrators at mental health facilities, hospitals, schools, and other organizations
- School counselors
- Community health program administrators
- Social service professionals at child welfare agencies and similar organizations
- Clinical researchers
- Mental and behavioral health consultants
- Adjunct faculty members at colleges and universities
Before assuming these positions, new professionals may need to gain some entry- to mid-level experience. However, with a strong foundation in research and clinical interventions, they can become better qualified for higher-level, higher-paying roles.
2. Foundation for Doctoral Studies
Other career possibilities for a professional with a psychology degree are a psychologist and a senior clinical researcher. These positions typically require a doctorate. Earning a master’s degree can be an important step to pursuing one.
For example, a doctorate in psychology can be extremely competitive. Applicants with experience, a master’s degree, and a graduate capstone or research project on their resume often make the most competitive candidates.
3. Hands-On Experience
During practicums, internships, and other types of fieldwork experiences, students work closely with faculty advisors and experienced field supervisors. This is a great opportunity for professionals to practice new skills and gain invaluable confidence before seeking career advancement opportunities. This can be especially helpful for those who wish to serve vulnerable populations with complex needs.
4. Networking
Throughout their studies, students pursuing a master’s degree in psychology can form close professional relationships with professors, peers, and alumni. These connections can become important to their support network, helping them access potential employers and secure recommendations.
Students can also meet potential employers through practicums and other hands-on learning experiences. Even if a student already has an employer, networking with other organizations can help them find new resources to offer their clients and patients.
Find a Master’s Degree in Psychology Tailored To You
While the master’s level offers many benefits of choosing a psychology degree, not every student has the same goals. Some want a full, in-depth experience, while others are working professionals who need some flexibility in their schedules. Through the MSCP program at Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), students of all kinds can customize their experiences to fit their needs.
This 37-unit program is available on campus and 100% online. While all psychology students take classes on advanced skills such as psychotherapy, research, and pharmacology, they can choose to specialize in Consulting and Applied Psychology or Business, Organizational, and Consulting Psychology.
At NDNU, practicums aren’t required, but students who want to gain a deeper understanding with hands-on experience can take advantage of the school’s vast professional network. To find out more, request more information today by filling out the form below.
Recommended Readings
How Hard Is It to Get A Master's Degree?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Psychology Degree?
Where Do Clinical Psychologists, Therapists, & Counselors Work?
Sources:
California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors, License Requirements
California Board of Psychology, Licensure as a Psychologist — Frequently Asked Questions
Indeed, 19 High-Paying Jobs You Can Get With a Master'’s in Psychology
Indeed, 10 Jobs to Consider With a Master’s Degree in Psychology