How Do I Go into Consumer Psychology?

As with most professions, getting into consumer psychology means first getting the proper education and training. The exact degree you obtain will depend on the kind of job you want, but it’s a safe bet that you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in a psychology-related course of study. Generally, your college or university student adviser will walk you through such decisions. Consumer psychologists can find both civilian and government jobs, sometimes under the names of consumer psychologists and sometimes under other names like market and survey researchers. Some consumer psychology jobs require employees to work as assistants before working independently, but this experience gives them helpful, and paid, on-the-job training.

Aspiring consumer psychologists obtain varying higher degrees, and the degree one possesses can determine whether he’s eligible for a particular job. Typically, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in some field of psychology, or in a similar field with psychology as a minor or representing a significant part of your course work. Often, the kinds of courses potential consumer psychologists take involve consumer behavior and the factors that affect that behavior. These could include peer groups, culture, and personal psychology. If your university offers a consumer psychology degree program, talk with your adviser about enrolling in the program.

You may or may not need to obtain a higher degree, such as a master’s degree or a doctorate degree, to reach your consumer psychology career goals. Keep in mind, though, that many consumer psychology jobs require applicants to have higher degrees. Too, most regions require at least a master’s degree before a psychologist can become licensed. Depending on the kinds of consumer psychology jobs you’re interested in, you may or may not need to be a licensed psychologist. Typically, these are decisions you make as you work your way through school, build relationships with professors and advisers, and perhaps even work as an intern before graduation.

Your consumer psychology career will depend on factors like your specific interests, the job market in your area, and whether you’re willing to relocate. Both private companies and government agencies employ consumer psychologists. Many marketing and advertising firms contract or hire full-time consumer psychologists. You might end up working as a college or university professor, teaching others how to become consumer psychologists. Note that you might find jobs in the consumer psychology field that go by different titles, such as market and survey researchers.

Similar to other professionals, a consumer psychologist sometimes must work his way from the bottom up. This means you might find a junior or assistant position with a company before gaining enough experience to work independently. Working beneath a more experienced consumer psychologist can provide you with valuable real-life job training you might not get in school.