What Is the Difference Between a Counseling and Psychology Degree?
There are many differences between counseling and psychology degrees and their respective fields. The counseling field requires a master's degree in order to be licensed and practice as a counselor. However, a psychologist must typically complete a doctoral level degree in psychology to practice independently. There are various areas of specialization in both counseling and psychology, opening a variety of career paths. Schools offering Psychology degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Degree in Counseling or Psychology - Purpose of the Degree
Students generally enroll in a counseling master's degree program in order to become eligible for licensure as a professional counselor for the state where they reside. Coursework revolves around training the student to be a certain type of counselor and to obtain certification as that type of counselor. A master's degree in psychology is offered either as a terminal degree (students want additional education in psychology in order to obtain a job) or as preparation for a doctorate in psychology. In order to become a licensed psychologist, most states require a student to complete a doctorate in psychology. Psychology degree programs may focus more on research than counseling degree programs, although both may have research components. Students in a psychology degree usually do not receive training in academic counseling as do counseling degree students.
Degree in Counseling or Psychology - Concentrations
Students taking either a counseling or psychology degree may choose a specialization. In counseling the specialization may include:
- Career counseling
- Counseling for college students
- Marriage and family therapy (preparation for MFT license)
- School counseling leading to a credential in Pupil Personnel Services
- School psychology leading to a credential in Pupil Personnel Services
A degree in psychology offers different specializations. Specialization may include:
- Forensics psychology
- Biopsychology
- Perception and cognition
- Developmental psychology
- Psychopathology
- Social psychology
- Organizational and industrial psychology
Degree in Counseling or Psychology - Careers
Students interested in counseling may start their careers after completing a master's degree. A selection of jobs that a master's counseling graduate may take include:
- Licensed social worker
- Professional counselor
- School counselor
- Substance abuse counselor
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Marriage and family licensed therapist
Students interested in a career in psychology generally must complete a doctorate degree. Career choices for doctorate psychology graduates may include:
- Counseling psychologist
- Clinical licensed psychologist
- Experimental psychologist
- School psychologist
- Organization and industrial psychologist
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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