10 Best Jobs for Graduates With an Associate Degree In Psychology

For those who are captivated by the complexities of the human mind and the myriad factors that shape our behavior, pursuing a degree in psychology often feels like the perfect fit. But what if you’ve earned an associate degree in this fascinating field and are now wondering, “What’s next?” You’re not alone! An associate degree in psychology is a versatile qualification, equipping graduates with a wide range of skills applicable to various fields. From understanding human behavior to honing excellent communication skills, you’re more prepared than you think for the job market.

In this blog post, we’re excited to guide you on a journey exploring the 10 Best Jobs for Graduates With an Associate Degree In Psychology. These careers span diverse sectors and roles, but they all share one common thread: they offer the chance to put your unique understanding of the human psyche to good use. Whether you’re interested in education, healthcare, law enforcement, or social work, you’re bound to find a job that resonates with your interests and professional goals. Let’s explore these enticing career paths together and get you a step closer to finding your ideal job.

10 Best Jobs for Graduates With an Associate Degree In Psychology

1 – Teacher’s Aide

Median salary: $14.14 per hour

Key Responsibilities: A teacher’s aide, also known as a paraprofessional aide, lends support to teachers in various student needs and educational situations. They often work with children who have disabilities or learning difficulties, help in preparing documents, and reports on students’ progress, and can contribute to creating lesson plans.

Qualifications: Typically, an associate degree is necessary, and certain roles may require a year or more of relevant work experience.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Newark Public Schools, Sylvan Learning Center, Anderson Center for Autism

2 – Home Care Aide

Median salary: $15.45 per hour

Key Responsibilities: A home care aide provides crucial services such as housekeeping, laundry, and grocery shopping for patients. They also assist patients with personal care tasks like dressing and bathing, and can also aid in administering medications or monitoring vital signs.

Qualifications: The minimum requirement is a high school diploma, although most agencies prefer candidates with an associate degree in psychology or human services. On-the-job training is often provided.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Associated Home Care, Inc., Family Resource Home Care, First Choice In-Home Care

3 – Family Advocate

Median salary: $16.34 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Family advocates facilitate services and activities for families to bolster their well-being. They serve as a bridge between families, staff, and the community, focusing on the interests of minor or dependent children. Their responsibilities include evaluating family situations and making recommendations about care and guardianship.

Qualifications: An associate degree in psychology, counseling, family services, human services, or social work is required.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Wu Yee Children’s Services, The Unity Council, Esperanza Shelter

4 – Social Services Assistant

Median salary: $17.11 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Social services assistants collaborate with clients and professionals to establish treatment plans or assist clients with daily activities. They also help clients fill out paperwork for benefits and regularly check in with clients to ensure they are receiving adequate services.

Qualifications: While requirements may differ among agencies, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, with an associate degree in psychology, social work, or behavioral science preferred.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

5 – Youth Counselor

Median salary: $17.96 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Youth counselors work with adolescents dealing with emotional, mental, or behavioral issues. Their duties include interacting with and supervising young people to support problem-solving and ensure their needs are met.

Qualifications: Although the minimum requirement is a high school diploma, most agencies prefer candidates with an associate degree in psychology, social work, or counseling.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Volunteers of America, The Hills Youth & Family Services, Friends of Youth

6 – Research Assistant

Median salary: $18.53 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Research assistants support data gathering and determination processes in various settings like universities, local government, or hospitals. They may participate in designing and monitoring clinical trials and ensuring compliance with protocols.

Qualifications: An associate degree in psychology is beneficial, but the specific requirements depend on the hiring organization. Some roles offer on-the-job training or support toward earning a bachelor’s degree.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Washington State University, American Direction Research Group, Brigham Young University

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7 – Psychiatric Technician

Median salary: $20.63 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Psychiatric technicians collaborate with a medical team that may include physicians, social workers, and therapists to provide care and counseling to patients in treatment or rehabilitation. Their duties encompass observing behavior, assisting patients with activities, and transporting patients within healthcare facilities.

Qualifications: A postsecondary certificate or associate degree in psychiatric or mental health technology is typically required.

Employers Hiring for this Role: County of San Mateo, CA, Ro Health, New Alternatives, Inc.

8 – Correctional Officer

Median salary: $21.34 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Correctional officers supervise inmates within a prison system, enforce regulations, and inspect facilities to maintain security and safety standards. They also document inmate behavior, assist in offender rehabilitation, and provide counseling services.

Qualifications: A high school diploma is a minimum requirement, but an associate degree in psychology or criminal justice is preferred. Applicants often need to pass an entrance exam and complete training at an academy.

Employers Hiring for this Role: New York City Department of Correction, United States Department of Justice, Illinois Department of Corrections

9 – Police Officer

Median salary: $24.67 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Police officers work to safeguard communities, preserve lives, and protect property. Their duties include responding to emergency and non-emergency calls, patrolling designated areas, conducting traffic stops, and filing reports.

Qualifications: At least a high school diploma or equivalent is required. However, some federal agencies and police departments may require college coursework or a degree in fields such as law enforcement, criminal justice, and psychology. Multilingual skills can be an asset in serving diverse communities.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, City of Miami Police Department, San Diego Police Department

10 – Mental Health Technician

Median salary: $38.82 per hour

Key Responsibilities: Mental health technicians assess patients’ physical and mental states, record vital signs, and maintain detailed notes. They aid patients with daily activities, assist during crises, and make informed decisions about the application of restraints. They may also help with the admission of new patients and act as a liaison between patients and their families.

Qualifications: An associate degree in a field with relevant coursework such as psychiatric nursing, psychology, medical terminology, patient assessment, counseling, and psychopharmacology is required.

Employers Hiring for this Role: Morrison Child and Family Services, Mental Health Center of Denver, Chicago Lakeshore Hospital

Earning an associate degree in psychology opens up an array of rewarding career opportunities in diverse fields. The 10 jobs highlighted here show how this versatile degree can equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to work in a variety of roles, from assisting teachers in the classroom to supporting mental health in a clinical setting. These positions not only offer competitive salaries but also provide a sense of fulfillment by making a positive impact on people’s lives.

Choosing the right career path is a personal decision influenced by one’s interests, values, and long-term goals. With an associate degree in psychology, you are well-prepared to embark on a career that focuses on understanding and helping people, whether it’s in an educational, healthcare, or social services context. The journey doesn’t have to stop there, though. Many roles offer the opportunity for further training and advancement, making an associate degree in psychology a solid foundation for those with ambitions in the vast field of psychology.

Graduates, keep in mind that the “10 Best Jobs for Graduates With an Associate Degree in Psychology” listed above are not exhaustive. They are stepping stones into the psychology field, which can be as broad and varied as human behavior itself. Each of these roles offers not only a chance to utilize your educational background but also a rewarding way to make a significant impact in your community.

Remember, the beauty of a degree in psychology lies in its versatility. So, as you launch your career, consider the many ways you can apply your knowledge and skills. Whether you’re guiding youth as a counselor, supporting research as an assistant, or advocating for families, your work will be essential to those you serve. Your associate degree in psychology is just the beginning – a launchpad into a fulfilling career dedicated to enhancing the human experience. Good luck in your career journey.