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What CSU has the best Psychology program?

I am very interested in the Psychology field, but I fear the somewhat huge unemployment rate is not going to get me a job at all and my money will be spent for nothing. #psychology #career-path #sociology #consulting #statistics

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Becky’s Answer

I also found psychology to be interesting and earned a Psychology degree 15 years ago. While the field and opportunities may have changed, the advice at the time was to expect to pursue a doctorate if you want to stay in the field. There's also a bit of competition for grad programs, but if you're committed, work to be at the top of your class and build your network. Regardless of where you study, find a program with a professor you resonate with. You're going to need recommendations for grad programs and beyond.

If you just find it interesting but don't feel like you can commit to years of schooling, then it's also okay to let it be a hobby. Or study business while pursuing a psychology minor while you have the opportunity to take a handful of classes.
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Rebecca’s Answer

It depends what you mean by "best." Also, CSUs will always accept financial aid. I would also consider UCs, if you have the grades for it. Once financial aid kicks in, you may be looking at a similar cost of attendance. I myself went to CSU Chico and loved the psychology program, but I have heard similar things from other students around the CSU campuses and at the UCs as well. And to your point on the unemployment rate, I don't think the issue is that psychology graduates are underemployed, but rather, underpaid. You will find work, but it may not be work that affords you the lifestyle you want. Direct care positions where you are providing care for special needs children or adults, or elderly individuals, are high in demand, but don't pay much. In the case of positions like that, it's true that all that money spent on a bachelor's degree may not feel worth it in the end, especially with limited career prospects and limited opportunity for promotions without a master's degree. Double major would be a smart idea if high pay is your end goal. Otherwise, plan on being in school long enough for a PhD program. Luckily, most PhD programs have the option of working as a research assistant for reduced tuition, so you could get through that with pretty minimal debt. Hope that helps!
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Justina’s Answer

I know a few individuals who graduated with a Psych degree and they either work in an unrelated field or they went to graduate school. If you are going to do this, my advice would be to plan on going to graduate school or double major so that if you change your mind and do not go to grad school you still have another degree that makes you employable. Set yourself apart from the competition by having a double major; it only costs you another year or two of undergrad.
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