Find an Online Psychology Program for You

Featured Online Psychology & Counseling Programs

Humans are a cultural species. As such, we depend on cultural learning in many aspects of our lives, whether forming a political alliance, enhancing our social status, or protecting our family, we do so in unique ways.

shutterstock_243770776

Many cultural psychologists are working toward expanding the field of cultural psychology to include as many diverse cultures as possible so that all people and explanations for human behavior are represented, thus taking on a more globalized view of human interactions. At its core, cultural psychology seeks to understand the underlying processes that drive the attitudes, ideas, and actions of cultures around the globe.

Important Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Cultural psychology isn’t a distinct sub-field of psychology, but a combination of many disciplines, such as linguistics, sociology, anthropology, and other disciplines. Cultural psychologist gather information and complete research from several fields within psychology, including developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and cultural-historical psychology.

Cultural psychologists need a great deal of knowledge, skills and abilities to excel in this profession, including:

Knowledge:

Skills & Abilities

Read more abouthow to become a cultural psychologist.

Job Outlook and Employment Projections

Cultural psychologists work in a wide variety of settings. For this reason it is difficult to determine average salary or expected growth in this field.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that as a whole, psychology careers will grow at a rate of6%between 2021 and 2031, which is a little faster than most career fields.  However, cultural psychologists might see much stronger growth, depending on place of employment, geographic location and level of education.

Cultural psychologists who conduct research, (which is usually centered around cultural factors and their influences on the way people think and behave) might study how people express emotions, such as happiness and anger.  They might conduct research on the university level, or might teach psychology courses specific to culture and its influence on societies.

Cultural psychologists are also increasingly seen in the realm of counseling or clinical psychology. This is due to the fact that the world population continues to grow, and become more diverse and psychologists must use their knowledge to develop interventions and assist clients from all cultures.

Cultural psychologists may find positions as cultural consultants in hospitals and clinics. Businesses who conduct work overseas seek cultural psychologists who can travel for work in foreign countries, and understand the differences in cultural traditions and business styles.

Many careers in the non-profit area seek people with a background in cultural psychology to craft policy. As the U.S. continues to see an influx of immigrants, disparities in education and health care and education among cultural groups become more and more important. Cultural psychologist also work for the United Nations, World Health Organization and other transnational groups who seek cultural psychologists to work on policy initiatives and develop programs.

How To Increase Your Job Prospects

Overall, most career opportunities in the field of psychology are available to individuals who hold a doctoral degree. For instance, if you choose to work in healthcare in a clinical setting, you must hold a master’s or doctoral degree and become licensed in the state where you live.  Cultural psychologists who work in public policy, research or education may be exempt from licensing requirements - however, most states require licensure to be called a psychologist.

A PhD or PsyD will also expand your employment options, salary, and opportunities for advancement.  An advanced degree will also provide opportunities to teach at the university level and work in some government agencies.

Many employers also prefer work experience, volunteering or internships in related areas, such as nonprofits or state-run organizations. Some programs offer certification at various levels.  Some employers also require certification, as well as continuing education credits.

Networking Opportunties & Additional Resources

2021 US Bureau of Labor Statistics job market trends and salary figures forpsychologistsare based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed July 2023.

Related CareersCultural Psychology CareersGet Started in an Army Psychologist CareerSpiritual Psychology CareersBecome a GerontologistWhat Is Criminal Psychology? How to Begin Your Career