A psychology degree is an excellent foundation for a wide variety of careers in health, education, social services, business, and other areas. The field is a growing area, with many jobs available in Canada.
Earning a psychology degree can be challenging, especially when you’re new to the field. But the rewards are worth it!
Whether you choose to study the human mind or animals, a psychology degree in Ontario can prepare you for a successful career. Here, you’ll learn how to study and understand human behaviour, mental illness, and cognitive processes.
Selecting a Psychology Bachelor’s Program
Students interested in pursuing a psychology degree can choose between two different undergraduate programs. They are the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS). The difference between these degrees largely comes down to whether you prefer to focus on general psychological theories and practices or a more scientific approach.
The BA is a more liberal option that may be more appealing get help to students who want to broaden their education beyond the confines of an academic degree. It also includes courses that can help you develop your interpersonal and communication skills, as well as an understanding of how to think critically.
You’ll also have the opportunity to explore research in the field, and learn about how psychological knowledge influences, predicts, and explains behavior. This can give you the edge you need to enter a graduate school of your choice or pursue an internship in a research laboratory.
Regardless of your chosen route, the key to earning your degree is to choose a university that has a strong reputation for offering a quality education. Look for a college or university that has a high national ranking, a strong alumni base, and a dedicated and experienced faculty.
Waterloo offers a top-ranked undergraduate psychology degree that’s consistently ranked among the best in the world (Shanghai World University Rankings 2020). You’ll have the chance to work with award-winning professors who can tailor your courses around your interests, or join the co-op stream for a hands-on experience in your field.
Both the bachelor of arts and the bachelor of science in psychology teach a range of important concepts, from scientific methods to how scientific knowledge affects and predicts human behavior. A psychology degree helps you understand how to apply critical thinking and analytic skills to a range of topics, from interpersonal relationships to cognitive processes.
A Psychology Master’s Degree in Ontario
If you’re ready to start your career as a psychologist, you’ll need a master’s degree to get registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. This can take a year or longer, depending on your degree. You’ll need to have completed at least a year of supervised practice before you can practice on your own.
Once you’re registered with the College, you can practice as a registered psychological associate or a registered clinical psychologist in Ontario. This can be a very rewarding career, and it allows you to work in a diverse range of settings including mental health, social work, addictions, and business.