Careers in Psychology (Bachelor’s OR Master’s Degree)
Psychology, believe it or not, has a wide variety of career opportunities for you. A lot of people fall under the impression that you have to become a counselor or…
Full ArticleIn this article, we’ll rank the top 6 highest paying jobs in the field of psychology, including the level of education/certifications required for each. This research is based on a study by Notre Dame de Namur University on March 6 of 2026.

Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists study how the brain influences behavior, memory, and cognitive functioning. They often work with patients who have neurological conditions, brain injuries, or developmental disorders.
Education: Doctorate + licensure
Why it pays well: Highly specialized scientific and clinical expertise
Median Salary: About $113,100 (Payscale, 2025)
Industrial‑Organizational Psychologist
I‑O psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues like employee performance, hiring, training, and organizational culture.
Education: Master’s (doctorate preferred for advancement)
Why it pays well: Direct impact on productivity, retention, and organizational success
Median Salary: $109,840 (BLS, 2024)

Clinical Psychologist
Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health conditions ranging from anxiety and depression to severe disorders. They work in private practice, hospitals, and mental‑health clinics.
Education: Doctorate + licensure
Why it pays well: High demand for mental‑health services nationwide
Median Salary: $95,830 (BLS, 2024)
School Psychologist
School psychologists support students’ academic, emotional, and behavioral needs. They conduct assessments, design interventions, and collaborate with teachers and families.
Education: Specialist‑level degree or master’s + certification
Why it pays well: Essential role in student mental health and learning outcomes
Median Salary: $86,930 (BLS, 2024)

Health Psychologist
Health psychologists study how behavior, stress, and lifestyle impact physical health. They help patients manage chronic illness, adopt healthier habits, and cope with medical challenges.
Education: Master’s or doctorate (varies by state and role)
Why it pays well: Growing emphasis on whole‑person, integrated healthcare
Median Salary: About $83,100 (Payscale, 2022)
Sports Psychologist
Sports psychologists work with athletes to improve performance, manage anxiety, and recover mentally from injuries. They may work with teams, individual athletes, or sports organizations.
Education: Master’s or doctorate
Why it pays well: High performance stakes and specialized expertise
Median Salary: Around $82,300 (Payscale, 2025)
