Also known as the Tar Heel State, North Carolina’s economy has undergone a major change. The state is not dependant on tobacco production, textile exports and furniture manufacturing; it is now the regional hub of energy, engineering, biotechnology, finance and higher education. Students with different educational and professional objectives can find suitable degree and certificate programs in the state and acquire knowledge and skills required to pursue a career of their choice. There are also numerous colleges in North Carolina for psychology that offer learning options for students who want to explore the intricacies of human mind.
Psychology Programs in North Carolina
Psychologists conduct scientific studies on the human brain and its functions, in addition to collecting psychological information through various methods such as interviews, observations, and surveys. They also conduct research and identify behavioral or emotional patterns and strive to understand and explain thoughts, emotions, feelings, and behavior.
There are different types of psychologists, such as:
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Clinical psychologists
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Developmental psychologists
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Forensic psychologists
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Industrial-organizational psychologists, and
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School psychologists
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders while counseling psychologists advise people on how to deal with psychological problems.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), counseling, clinical and research psychologists generally hold a PhD degree. They may complete a PhD in psychology or Psy.D. - Doctor of Psychology degree. While the PhD is a research-based degree, Psy.D. is a clinical degree based on examinations and hands-on training rather than a dissertation. School psychologists typically need a doctoral degree in school psychology, or a master’s degree.
There are a number of schools in North Carolina that offer undergraduate as well as graduate degree programs in psychology. The graduate programs are offered by both traditional and online schools. Students who cannot attend on-campus classes may consider the online option.
Coursework in Psychology Programs
Psychology programs will introduce a range of psychological subjects to students such as the fundamentals of psychology, personality, and social psychology, in addition to biological psychology. Some of the topics students may explore are:
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Child psychology
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Behavior therapy
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Social psychology
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Pathology
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Personality disorders
In addition to classroom-based instruction, in some degree programs students will also have to pass comprehensive exams, and complete dissertation. Upon completion of a degree in psychology, students may learn how to design, plan, and conduct research in the field. They may also acquire critical thinking skills in addition to learning how to address psychological issues and perform ethically in personal and professional interactions.
Admissions
To enroll in the graduate psychology programs in North Carolina, students may not necessarily need to hold an undergraduate degree in psychology. They may, however, need to have taken courses in introductory psychology, experimental psychology, and statistics. Applicants may further need to submit the GRE scores. Applicants for the doctoral degree should hold a master’s degree in psychology but some programs may accept applicants with a bachelor’s degree in psychology as well. Three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, in addition to any other relevant documents, may also be required.
North Carolina Psychology Work Opportunities
Psychologists may work in clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and community and mental health centers. Research psychologists generally work in private research organizations, colleges and universities and government agencies. School psychologists work in public schools and colleges as well as private schools, universities, community treatment centers, and independent practices.
O*NET OnLine predicts that the demand for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in the state of North Carolina is likely to grow in the coming years (2012-2022). Demand for counseling and clinical psychologists is expected to increase as these professionals will also be required to provide services to an aging population, while some will be needed to look after the veterans suffering from war trauma.
Demand for psychologists in the healthcare industry is also likely to grow. School psychologists will be required to work with students, particularly those with behavioral problems, special needs and learning disabilities.