I'm really interested in psychology and considering a future career path in military psychology research. What kind of educational background and experience would I need to get into this field? Are there specific military programs or positions I should look into?
A career in military psychology research often requires a solid educational foundation and relevant experience. Here are the common steps typically involved:
1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: You can start by pursuing a Bachelor's degree in psychology, preferably with a focus on subjects related to military psychology, such as abnormal psychology, stress, and trauma. Research opportunities during your undergraduate studies can also be beneficial.
2. Pursue a Graduate Degree: Most research positions usually require advanced degrees. Therefore, pursuing a Master's degree or PhD in psychology is highly recommended. Specializing in areas directly related to military psychology can be quite advantageous. This could include PTSD, resilience building, selection and recruitment, leadership development, ethics, and military-civilian transition.
3. Get Licensed: Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally involve having a doctoral degree, completing an internship, and having 1-2 years of professional experience. You'll also need to pass a state-sanctioned exam.
4. Gain Relevant Experience: Experienced gained through internships or entry-level roles can be invaluable. Look for opportunities with the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, or in military hospitals.
5. Join the Military: You could also consider serving in the military, as you'll gain firsthand experience and have access to specialized training. The U.S. Army, for example, has the Military Psychologist position (a commissioned officer role). Navy's Medical Service Corps and Air Force's Clinical Psychologist position are other examples.
6. Stay Updated with Research: The field of military psychology is constantly evolving. Staying up-to-date with the latest research and trends is important. You can do this through professional organizations like APA's Division 19 (Society for Military Psychology).
Remember to leverage networking opportunities and maintain your credentials through continuing education. Professional development and specialized training in areas such as resilience training or trauma-focused therapies will also strengthen your knowledge and competencies in the field.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.