Nicknamed the City of Angels, Los Angeles is known for its entertainment industry, as well as myriad of businesses. It is also a hub of international trade, fashion, science, technology, education, medicine as well as research. In addition, the city is also known for its variety of academic opportunities that allow students to pursue higher education in the field of their interest. There are a number of schools in Los Angeles that offer a range of degree and certificate programs in the field of psychology.
Psychology Los Angeles Programs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists generally hold a master, specialist or a doctoral degree in psychology. Practicing psychologists also need a license or certification. Students interested in pursuing a career in psychology may enroll in the psychology programs in Los Angeles and explore various psychological, mental and behavioral issues and learn how to provide counseling to different groups. They may further develop critical thinking skills and learn the techniques to address real-life psychological issues as well.
Psychologists study cognitive, emotional, and social processes and human behavior using a number of methods. Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Counseling psychologists advise people on how to deal with different psychological issues. Developmental psychology is another branch of the discipline wherein students study the psychological progress and development that takes place throughout life. Forensic psychologists make use of psychological principles in the legal and criminal justice system in order to help lawyers and judges understand the psychological aspects of a case. School psychologists address student learning and behavioral problems and may also design, implement, and evaluate performances and counsel students.
Types of Psychology Programs
Psychology schools in Los Angeles offer both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs. While the bachelor’s degree provides a broad understanding of the field to its students, it is the master’s degree that provides the students with an opportunity to specialize in a specific psychological aspect.
Psychology graduate programs in Los Angeles such as the doctoral degree offer students in depth knowledge in the field and also provide them with research opportunities. Students may work towards a PhD or Psy.D. degree. There are however distinct differences between the two; while the PhD is traditionally more academic and research-oriented, the Psy.D. degree is more practitioner-oriented. But both programs are designed for those who intend to become psychologists.
Online psychology programs in Los Angeles are also available and can be suitable for those who cannot attend traditional programs or those who seek more flexibility. Online programs instruct students using a variety of tools and technologies including webinars, online chat forums, online libraries and more. But the online programs are ideally for those who are self-starters and can stay motivated.
Admission Requirements
To enroll in psychology programs in Los Angeles, students need to:
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Hold a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree
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Have completed previous coursework in psychology and statistics
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Submit GRE scores
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Provide letters of recommendation
Courses
Ranging from personality theories to motivation theories, students in the psychology degree programs study a variety of topics that help them acquire the relevant skills and knowledge.
Curriculum may include courses such as:
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Social behavior
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Abnormal behavior
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Cognition and memory
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Child psychology
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Social psychology
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Pathology
Career Outlook
According to the information published on O*NET OnLine, there were 24,900 clinical, counseling and school psychologists in the state of California in 2012. The state is expected to need additional psychologist between 2012 and 2022 in order to help people cope with the psychological problems in their lives. Special students will also need the services of school psychologists.
Psychologists may work in a number of settings including:
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Mental health services
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Criminal justice and legal systems
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Child-care/day-care centers
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Substance abuse treatment centers
Some of these professionals are also employed by private research organizations, colleges and universities while others work for community treatment centers.