Essential Information
Students study addiction, personal growth, and human and child development, among other topics. Associate's degree programs also require general education courses such as mathematics, science and English composition. A high school diploma or equivalent is required for admission for a two year associate's degree program.
Associate's Degree in Psychology
Associate's degree programs in psychology can serve two purposes. The first is to earn credits that can be transferred towards a bachelor's degree in psychology. The second prepares students for entry-level positions assisting psychologists. Classes offer information on abnormal psychology, social psychology, and organizational psychology. Students also may explore topics such as grief counseling and substance abuse treatment. Courses include:
- Social psychology
- Abnormal psychology
- Organizational psychology
- Coping with death and dying
- Personal growth
Popular Career Options
Graduates of this program can pursue careers as mental health professionals who work with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or other therapists to care for emotionally or mentally unbalanced patients. They assist patients with bathing, grooming, and eating. They also look for behavioral changes in patients and report them to the patients' primary physician, nurse, or social worker. Depending on the state, some additional licensure may be required. Career options include:
- Psychiatric aide
- Mental health assistant
- Mental health advocate
- Psychological nursing assistant
Continuing Education Information
Should a student wish to continue their education after earning an associate's degree in psychology, a bachelor's degree program would be the next step. Students wishing to become a psychologist, counselor, social worker, or school guidance counselor should continue their education to the master's or doctorate degree level. Clinical independent psychologists must have a Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Psychology degree. The American Psychological Association, the National Association of School Psychologists or the American Board of Professional Psychology are three national professional organizations that help set the standards of education and conduct for psychology professionals at all levels.
Psychology associate's degrees teach a variety of skills to students looking to find work in a variety of mental healthcare careers, with higher level degrees to advance your career opportunities and options.
