Psychology Brand Bahr Sept. 18th 2009

Earnings $65,330 is the average annual earnings in South Dakota Some make up to as much as $100,000+ a year. The starting wage is usually about $56,700 in South Dakota The things that will effect annual earning are: Where you live Which area of psychology you enter Amount of education Amount of experience

Educational Requirements It can require 6-13 years of education depending on the field of psychology you go in to. You can get a masters in 6 years, bachelors in 7-8, and a doctoral in 11-13 years. Some psychology fields do not require a license, but most will require you to take an oral exam or written test. You may also be required to work under a supervisor for a few months.

Entry level positions/opportunities for advancement Entry level may be starting as an assistant. An opportunity for advancement would be getting more education and experience to get more pay You can also become a supervisor to some one else. After you get a lot of experience in psychology you can make $100,000+ a year.

Nature of the work You must be able to effectively deal with people You need good communication skills You get to study the human mind and behavior Help people adjust to changes or problems in their lives You interview patients and give diagnostic tests

Working Conditions Some get to set their own hours but may need to work weekends to accommodate patients. Those that work in hospitals work evenings and week ends in addition to the regular work week usually. Those that work for schools work regular day time hours. You get to work indoors in an air conditioned room. No physical activity.

Job Outlook 332,900 people are currently employed in psychology based jobs. 8000 job openings are expected this year. This field will continue to grow.

Advantages/disadvantages Work with people Help people Get to listen to interesting stories This will involve lots of thinking I will have to write stuff down Can’t talk about the people’s problems

Why this career? I listen well I like to listen to people’s stories. It would enjoy this job. It pays well Comes with benefits I would treat all my patients equally

How to prepare Do well in school Read psychology books Job shadow a psychiatrist Take psychology Research psychology on the internet

Inventory results My top category was social Psychology is completely socially based Investigative was my second highest and it also suits psychology because your job is to investigate the human mind.

Conclusion I would like to become a psychiatrist because it would be fun, comes with benefits, pays well, and I get to help people with their problems.