To become a psychologist, you'll need to:

• study for a psychology degree accredited by the The British Psychological Society (BPS), or do a psychology conversion course
• gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership
• complete an accredited postgraduate qualification in your chosen specialism to work as a psychologist

Psychology conversion course

You may be able to complete an approved psychology conversion course if:

• your psychology degree is not accredited by The BPS
• you have a degree in a subject other than psychology

Postgraduate qualification

To practise as a psychologist, you'll need to complete an accredited postgraduate qualification in your chosen specialism.

Specialisms include:

• educational psychology
• forensic psychology
• occupational psychology
• sport and exercise psychology

To apply for a postgraduate specialism course, you’ll need:

• a first or 2:1 (upper second class) degree
• excellent research skills
• relevant work experience

You should check the postgraduate entry requirements with the admissions department where you want to study.

You can find out more about all of the different specialisms and the postgraduate training from The BPS.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

It can be helpful to get some voluntary experience in health or social care or in education before you apply for a course.

You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do IT.

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• to enjoy working with other people
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• active listening skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

As a psychologist, your day-to-day tasks will depend on your specialism. For example you could:

• support young people with learning or emotional issues
• work with patients with brain injuries
• use psychological theory to help people who have been in prison
• support people with conditions like anxiety, stress and depression
• help businesses improve employee job satisfaction
• help improve individual or team motivation and performance

You could work at a school, in an NHS or private hospital, in a prison, in a therapy clinic, in the community or at a client's business.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.