So, you’ve completed or nearly finished your undergraduate studies of psychology, and now it’s time to face life outside of university; do not worry! Today we will discuss different options for you to take, and how to continue working in the field you undoubtedly love.
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Graduate Jobs:
Throughout your education, you will have most likely consulted with the careers team or at least spoken to someone about your options for the future. Utilising the careers office at university is essential for understanding which route you’d like to take post- graduation. Taking time to build a network during University is also a great idea as it will certainly help gain a graduate job with a company or employer you may already know. Graduate jobs are often very competitive due to the large number of students that will graduate each year, especially for a popular course such as psychology, and so having these connections are vital!
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Self- Employment:
Although a different and rather daunting route to take, self-employment provides you with many exciting benefits. The independence and freedom to pursue your own dreams within your own company or business is unrivalled but comes hand in hand with responsibility of both the enterprise itself, and any employees you may have.
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Postgraduate Studies:
Whilst some students may wish to finalise their studies in psychology with only a three or four-year course, postgraduate studies are essential in becoming a chartered psychologist. Many psychology jobs require further education, and so returning to university is a great option. Indeed, this must be carefully thought about however, as continuing at university is an expensive choice.
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Gap Year:
For those of you who are in dire need of a break after continuous years of hard work and studies, a Gap Year after graduation is a perfect option. Not only does it allow for travels and truly experiencing the world but is a perfect opportunity to do some work experience and thus improve your chances of employment within the psychology sector. Mental health work placements are a great option for both gaining that valuable work experience, but also understanding whether or not this career is suitable for you! Many graduates prefer to take a gap year out for exactly this reason- they acknowledge the significance of work experience- but then return to university to complete their postgraduate studies too.
Taking time to think about your options and different career paths is essential for any undergraduate completing University, but once doing so, you can enter that particular route with confidence and excitement! After all, the world is your oyster!