Humanistic psychology is an area of psychology that focuses on human motivation and potential. Careers for humanistic psychologists include counseling, research and academics. To go into humanistic psychology, you will need to obtain a minimum of an undergraduate degree; for most such careers, you also will need an advanced degree. You also may need to perform, present and publish research and may need to be involved in internships or other such opportunities.
Education is the most important facet of pursuing a career in humanistic psychology. Most undergraduate psychology programs cover a broad range of areas, including humanistic psychology. Earning an undergraduate degree in a solid psychology program can help you get into graduate school, but it is only the start. While in college, you also will want to become involved in student groups devoted to psychology, earn the best grades possible and, if you have the opportunity, engage in undergraduate research. These factors, along with recommendations from professors, will help you gain acceptance into a respected graduate program.
A master's-level education is critical for most humanistic psychology careers, including research and counseling. If possible, you will want to select a master's program that allows you to focus on humanistic theory. You also will want to select a program that provides either a research or counseling track.
As during your undergraduate program, you will want to participate in student professional organizations. You will likely have far more opportunities to participate in research studies and to contribute to papers, and you should take advantage of these. If you intend to continue your education, such activities will help you be accepted into a doctoral program.
While you may be able to obtain an assistant professorship or lecturer position with a master's degree, such positions at major universities — along with full professorships and most research positions — will require you to have a doctorate in psychology. Doctoral programs in humanistic psychology are rare and earning admittance is not easy. If you are able to participate in such a program, you should do so. If not, you should select a reputable program that includes humanism as one of its focuses.
Throughout and following your education, you should take advantage of any opportunity to participate in research activities or internships. In addition, you should look for opportunities to publish your own findings or to be credited in papers to which you contributed. You also should take advantage of opportunities to present your research and findings at professional conferences and gatherings.
