Psychologist: Choosing the Right Degree When Psychology Isn’t an Option
My daughter is set to start dual enrollment this fall. Thanks to her homeschooling, she can fulfill many of the BA requirements at our local state college. She’s expressed an interest in becoming a psychologist, but unfortunately, there’s no four-year psychology program available here. Given that she might change her mind, I believe it would be wise to establish a solid foundation for alternative career paths.
The two closest options are a BA in Biological Science or a BA in Social and Human Services. I’m looking for advice on which direction to encourage her to pursue.
These degrees have different focuses in terms of math and science, so while there’s always the possibility of a change in interests, having a clear path from the start would be beneficial. She could end up wanting to explore computers, criminal justice, or business as well, so it’s important to choose thoughtfully.
I’m leaning toward the BA in Biological Science since it aligns more with medical careers, but I also recognize that if she discovers she doesn’t want to go through medical school, the Human Services degree might be a better fit for her personality. The first two semesters will be identical for both paths, but by the third semester (in the summer), I’ll need to select a different math class that diverges for each degree.
Feedback on which degree might be best to prioritize would be greatly appreciated!
It sounds like you’re in a unique situation with your daughter’s education, and it’s great that you’re considering her options carefully! Given that she might change her mind about her career path, it could be wise to focus on a degree that allows for flexibility.
A BA in Biological Science is a solid choice if she shows an interest in the medical field or pursuing further education in psychology or related disciplines. This option will provide her with a strong foundation in the sciences, which could be beneficial for a variety of health-related fields, including psychology, if she decides to specialize later on.
On the other hand, a BA in Social and Human Services offers a more direct connection to psychology and could align closely with her interests in helping others and social issues. This path might allow her to gain practical experience in the field sooner, which could help her decide if she wants to pursue psychology further or go in a different direction.
Ultimately, since she is still exploring her interests, you might consider encouraging her to take introductory courses in both areas during her first semesters. This way, she can get a taste of each field before committing to a specific path. Additionally, if she finds that she enjoys both social sciences and biological sciences, she might be able to combine her interests in the future. Flexibility is key at this stage, so supporting her exploration will be beneficial as she narrows down her options.