Is psychology a good profession in the UK

Psychology is a great profession that can save lives and promote a healing journey over the long term. But is psychology a good profession in the UK? What are the prospects for students entering a therapeutic space? We’ll explore this in today’s piece.

Growing demand for psychologists in the UK

We’re all aware that we need to look after our mental health and encourage anyone we know struggling with mental health issues to get support. As a result, more people are (thankfully) seeking treatment and therapy across healthcare, education and corporate outlets. And that translates to job opportunities and projected growth. Health Education England states, “The NHS Mental Health Implementation Plan 2019/20 – 2023/24 indicates an estimated 8,140 (WTE) additional psychological professionals will be needed in post between 2019/20 and 2023/24.” So, if you train in psychology now, it’s very likely you’ll have a smooth pathway into the NHS and other relevant workplaces.

Training in psychology in the UK

To get into psychology, you’ll want to study a related course for undergraduate, postgraduate and/or doctoral studies. It’s also critically important that your course is accredited. At the University of Bolton our courses are accredited and “our BSc (Hons) in Criminological and Forensic Psychology has received national recognition for innovation by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and our BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling has dual accreditation. This means the programme is accredited by the BPS and by ABC Awards, enabling you to gain both Level 2 and 3 certificates in counselling skills as these are embedded in the degree.” Having all these qualifications will really open up the roles you can go after and make working in psychology even more straightforward.

How much do psychologists get paid in the UK?

Psychology is a well-paid career in the UK. Prospects explains, “After qualification, salaries within the NHS start at £43,742 (Band 7). More experienced psychologists can earn between £50,952 and £57,349 (Bands 8a and 8b). Consultant-level clinical psychologist roles typically range from £70,417 to £96,376 (Bands 8c and 8d).” Compare that to the median average UK salary which is only £34,963 and you can really see the financial value of training in psychology.

Career options in psychology

So, what type of roles can you take within the psychology profession? Here are some of the most popular careers:

● Clinical Psychologist
● Counselling Psychologist
● Educational Psychologist
● Health Psychologist
● Occupational Psychologist
● Sports Psychologist
● Research Psychologist
● Neuropsychologist
● Psychotherapist
● Forensic Psychologist

You might work in the NHS, at a private practice, for schools, colleges or universities, at a government agency, in the corporate sector, for prisons and rehabilitation centres or with charitable organisations to provide mental health services.

Look at all those options! It speaks to psychology's dynamic nature and provides even more reasons for you to pursue your passion.

Is psychology a good profession in the UK? Absolutely! And we can help you find the right course to suit whatever specialism catches your fancy. Talk to us at +44 (0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to explore the different options and find out how Bolton University can make your career ambitions a reality.