How to Become a Teaching Psychologist

Psychology professors impart their knowledge of psychology onto students interested in earning a degree in this diverse discipline. A career as a teaching psychologist can be extremely rewarding. Not only do psychology teachers make a positive impact on the lives of multiple students on a daily basis, they also get to teach and research a subject that is interesting. 

Professors can work both at the high school and college level, but teaching at a university requires at least a master’s degree in psychology. Argosy University offers a wide selection of bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs in a variety of psychology concentrations at 19 locations across the nation. Many psychologists decide at some point in their career that they would like to transition from therapy to teaching as a change of pace. The competition that arises from this heightened interest in the job means that employers can be extremely picky about who they choose as a candidate, so a graduate degree is a must.

Graduate degrees in psychology can take anywhere from two to seven years to complete, depending on the level of degree received. Competition among professionals on the job market, especially for college professors, is fierce. Obtaining a doctorate degree is a way to get a leg up on the competition. Within the field of psychology, teaching as a college professor is considered to be a fairly posh job and is prized for its security and consistency.

Whether teaching at a high school or college level, teaching psychologists spend quite a bit of time coming up with lesson plans and grading student’s assignments. Daily interactions with students and faculty are important to carve out a reputation. Many college psychology professors teach between two and four classes per day, five times a week.

Teaching psychology is a lucrative career that offers many opportunities for growth and development.  Good listening skills, patience, kindness, empathy and foresight are traits that teachers need to have to be able to get along with students.  Imparting wisdom and direction onto another is a noble career choice, one that has lifelong benefits.

This post is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.