If you’re interested in pursuing a career in psychology, Florida Institute of Technology’s online Applied Psychology programs provide several options. These include Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Applied Psychology programs focused on Child Advocacy, Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Organizational Psychology, as well as an Associate of Arts in Applied Psychology program. Now the question is, what is applied psychology, and what does the area of study offer you?
Essentially, applied psychology is the application of psychological principles to solve problems of the human experience, including the workplace, health, product design, law and more. Yet, although the foundation of the discipline is the application of psychology to tackle real-world issues, applied psychology in theory and practice can be more complex. Let’s get a more detailed definition of the concept.
What Is Applied Psychology?
There are effectively two major areas of psychology, umbrellas under which most subdisciplines of psychology fall. You can differentiate these two areas of psychology as focusing on either research or practice. The two main areas of psychology correlate with experimental (“basic” or research-based) psychology and applied (practice-based) psychology, though some consider these subdisciplines as well.
Applied psychology puts research to work to identify and design solutions for individuals and organizations. Applied psychology wouldn’t exist without the foundation provided by experimental psychology.
Students and professionals in applied psychology must be able to identify, understand and develop practical solutions for real-world problems. This requires a strong background in theory and practice, historical trends and ethical behavior.
It is important for psychology students to learn how to apply theory, research and literature in a meaningful way and integrate the material into practice. Psychology is a science, but how can people apply the science of psychology to everyday life? This approach may be useful in numerous environments, from a clinical or business setting to a courtroom or prison. Practical application is the key to this area of psychology.
Experimental Psychology vs. Applied Psychology
If you’re studying psychology in school or beginning your career, it’s important to consider your feelings about experimental psychology vs. applied psychology. Careers in either area of psychology can differ dramatically.
To generalize, if you’re more comfortable working with people and organizations, applied psychology may be the best path for you. If your interests tend more toward research, you might pursue another avenue in experimental psychology disciplines.
Branches of Applied Psychology
There are many branches of applied psychology, including the following:
- Clinical psychology: Clinical psychologists work directly with patients to diagnose and treat mental and behavioral issues, such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Generally, clinical psychologists (as with other psychologists) cannot prescribe medications, yet there are a number of evolving exceptions to this rule, depending on state-specific laws. Clinical psychologists can specialize in various populations, from young children to the elderly, and work in a variety of contexts.
- Industrial and organizational psychology (I/O psychology): Professionals in this field use psychology techniques and strategies to help companies become more productive. Typically, an I/O psychologist looks at employees’ competencies and job responsibilities. Professionals use I/O psychology to help with hiring, employee productivity, performance management, training and organizational culture.
- Forensic psychology: Forensic psychologists use their training and skills to support the justice system. A forensic psychologist might help determine if a suspect can stand trial. They may also deal with issues of child custody and workplace discrimination. Forensic psychologists must be able to serve as a credible witness in court proceedings.
- Sports psychology: Sports psychologists don’t sit on the sidelines — they’re part of the game! A sports psychologist must be familiar with the mechanics of sports and nutrition so they can help athletes and teams reach peak performance. They play a large role in team development and individual player rehabilitation.
Additionally, applied psychology can include applications related to consumer, education, military and political behaviors. Further examples of applied psychology branches are media psychology, environmental psychology, community psychology, family psychology and health psychology.
What Skills Do Applied Psychology Students Gain?
This discipline’s diversity offers you the opportunity to build skills that are useful far beyond the required professional competencies. A degree in applied psychology can help you develop writing proficiency skills, research skills, interpersonal awareness and critical thinking methods. Other valuable soft skills gained from this degree include:
- Presentation skills
- Numeric proficiency
- Teamwork abilities
- Flexibility
- Self-management
Applied Psychology Salary Expectations and Job Outlook
The outlook for people seeking psychology careers is bright. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports there were 207,500 psychologist jobs in 2023. BLS projects that employment of psychologists will increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. In May 2023, the annual median pay for psychologists was $92,740.
In terms of education and training, psychologists typically need a doctoral-level degree. However, a master’s degree can be enough depending on the field, regional laws and specific professional role.
Career Paths in Applied Psychology
Earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be the foundation for pursuing advanced degrees. In addition, certain positions may require a clinical license or certification. Researching the credential requirements for your state is essential to your success. Here are a few career paths in this field:
- Clinical psychologist: This is one of the most popular career choices in the mental health field. Clinical psychologists serve individuals, couples and families.
- Detective: These law enforcement officers often use psychology as they investigate the facts surrounding a crime.
- Child custody worker: Child custody workers assess parents’ abilities to care for their children. This occupation can be emotionally draining, and professionals must ensure they don’t experience compassion fatigue.
- Probation officer: These officers monitor and provide counseling to people who previously committed a crime. Just like with child custody workers, compassion fatigue can be an issue.
- Forensic psychologist: As stated above, a forensic psychologist aids the justice system to make sure people get fair representation.
If you’re considering a professional path in applied psychology, invest your time and learn more about how this emerging field is changing the psychology landscape. Whether it’s a decision to enhance your skills or pursue a career change, Florida Tech’s applied psychology online degrees offer the flexibility you need.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online Applied Psychology programs.
