Psychology Schools in Boston
Boston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. and is an important port and manufacturing hub, as well as a center for higher education. The city’s rich history attracts thousands every year. Finance, professional and business services as well as colleges and universities are some of the key economic drivers of Boston. Boston’s numerous institutes of higher learning, makes it an international center of higher education and medicine, including psychology.
Psychology programs in Boston
There are a number of academic paths that are offered at the colleges in Boston for psychology, providing students with opportunities to explore the intricacies of human mind and study behavioral issues. These programs also provide opportunities for students to develop skills in critical thinking, conducting psychological research, and the ability to apply psychological theories, perspectives, and techniques to address real-life situations.
Undergraduate Degree Programs in Psychology
Students may choose to enroll in the undergraduate degree programs such as the bachelor’s degree that may take 4 years of full-time study to complete. The program provides students with exposure to a broad range of psychological theories. Students also learn how to conduct research. They may be able to demonstrate proficiency in explaining and evaluating strengths and limitations of common research methods and hone skills in conducting fundamental psychological research.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) psychologists generally need to hold a doctorate degree. Aspiring psychologists in Boston may pursue a PhD in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree.
Students pursuing psychology at a graduate level learn principles and scientific methodologies by examining behavioral, cognitional and social issues. These advanced programs may also provide students with an opportunity to focus on a particular area such as developmental psychology, clinical psychology, neuroscience, and forensic psychology.
Psychology graduate programs in Boston, such as a doctoral degree, are the highest degree that students can achieve in this area. In addition to coursework, doctoral candidates are also required to complete a dissertation.
Other than regular degree programs, students can also enroll in the online psychology graduate programs in Boston and study at their own pace. This online learning option can particularly be useful for those who already hold a degree in psychology and want to earn advanced credentials for career advancement.
Applicants of an undergraduate degree must hold a high school diploma or GED while those who seek to enroll in a master's degree program in psychology are required to hold a bachelor's degree. Graduate degree programs generally prefer to enroll students with previous coursework in psychology and statistics. Besides, students are also required to submit GRE scores. Candidates who want to enroll in the doctoral degree programs must hold a master’s degree in psychology but some programs may accept applicants with a bachelor’s degree and a major in psychology. Other requirements for admissions may vary by school and type of program.
Students in the Boston psychology programs study a number of topics that help them develop critical thinking, research and communication skills. The programs also instruct in areas including:
Some psychology schools in Boston may also offer classes in child psychology, social psychology, and pathology. Upon completion, students may learn how to design, plan, and conduct research in the field, in addition to learning how to address psychological problems.
Students with degrees in psychology may explore opportunities in various fields including mental health services, mental health facilities and criminal justice and legal systems. Child-care/day-care centers, as well as substance abuse treatment centers also hire professionals with expertise in human mind and behavior. Other workplace settings for psychologists may include:
O*NET OnLine reports that the demand for clinical, counseling and school psychologists in Massachusetts is likely to grow between 2012 and 2022.