A Psychology degree helps you build a deep understanding of human behaviour and what motivates people, while also developing skills related to gathering, evaluating, and sharing credible research-based information. These insights and abilities are highly valued in multiple workplace settings including the non-profit sector, education, social services, health care, as well as in government, law, and research institutions (e.g., hospitals, universities).
This degree can lead to various careers including teaching, research, administration, counselling, and psychotherapy. Psychology graduates have also found roles in human resources, marketing, media, and many other industries where insights into human behaviour are essential. Beyond work life, a Psychology degree promotes self-discovery and identity formation, enhances curiosity and critical thinking, and gives you tools to personally thrive in a complex world.
Career Options
Enhance Your Employability and Build Your Network
Add a Career-Focused Certificate
Enhance your employability by pairing your degree with a career-focused certificate. For example, the York-Seneca Rehabilitation Services Certificate includes 800 hours of supervised fieldwork, giving you both critical thinking skills and hands-on experience that employers value.
Make Meaningful Connections
Many employers hire through referrals. Grow your network through informational interviews, professional associations, and shared-interest spaces. These connections can lead to mentorship, insights, and job opportunities. New to networking? Explore the Networking in Your Field of Interest resource.
Research Job Requirements
Explore the National Occupational Classification (NOC) website to learn about the essential requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field. See this resource for Tips for Using the National Occupational Index (NOC).
Psychology Alumni
Psychology alumni are working in health care, law, marketing, education, research and more.
Kat Kova
BA in Psychology, MSc
Psychotherapist, Private Practice and PhD Student, York University
“It was my dream to work with Dr. Amy Muise, given her expertise in the area of sexuality and relationships research and now I am conducting research on the factors that maintain sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction in long-term relationships."
Jonathan Clodman
BA Psychology, BEd, MEd
Teacher, Toronto District School Board
“I took Community Psychology and loved the focus on upstream preventative community supports. I think it was one of the factors that led to me going into education."
Chantel Donalds
BSc Psychology, OD
Optometrist
“York University stood out for me because of its state-of-the-art Centre for Vision Research. There, I realized that vision and the mind go hand in hand. This had led me to pursue my studies in psychology in which I was able to learn and understand how the human mind perceives vision."
Maher Bukhari
BSc Psychology
Youth Advisor, YMCA GTA
“What stood out most for me was the direct help and mentorship I received from my professors and teaching assistants. They were always willing to go the extra mile to support my learning, answer my questions, and give me guidance on both academic and career paths. This personalized attention made a huge difference in my experience and really helped me grow as a student.”
Shaylyn Isaacs
BA Psychology, MEd
Business Owner, S. Isaacs Wellness
“I was a Research Assistant volunteer with Dr. Alexandra Rutherford in her Psychology’s Feminist Voices lab. Her mentorship, guidance and support changed my university experience at YorkU for the better. It was through this experience that I gained more courage to make a change in my environment through starting a women’s mental health organization and engaging further in social advocacy work for women of color.”
Safiyyah Alli
BSc Psychology, MEd
School-wide Educational Assistant, Peel District School Board
“Studying Psychology at York University gave me a rich understanding of human behavior, psychological understanding, and critical thinking skills that have shaped every step of my career. The program’s blend of research, theory, and real-world application helped me grow intellectually and personally.”
Bryan Choi
BSc in Psychology, MA, PhD
Psychologist, Private Practice
“York's Psychology program is one of the best in North America and can prepare you for a rewarding and successful career in psychology. The Psychology faculty and professors are knowledgable and care about student learning. I learned so much from them."