relevant coursework psychology

• Career Blog

Psychology Resume: Skills, Summary & Objective Examples

As a psychology professional, having a well-crafted resume is essential to showcasing your skills, qualifications, and experience. In this article, we will explore how to create an effective psychology resume, including tips for crafting a standout document that highlights your expertise.

A psychology resume is a professional document that highlights your education, work experience, and other relevant qualifications specific to the field of psychology. It is a key tool for job seekers looking to secure positions in various psychology-related fields, such as counseling, therapy, research, and academia.

Importance of a Psychology Resume

Your psychology resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers or graduate school admissions committees. It is therefore crucial to make it effective, well-structured, and tailored to the specific position or program you are applying for. A strong psychology resume can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview or acceptance letter.

How to create an effective Psychology Resume

To create an effective psychology resume, you should begin by researching the specific job or program requirements and tailoring your document to meet those needs. This includes highlighting relevant skills and experiences, using clear and concise language, and structuring your document in a way that is easy to read and understand.

Tips for crafting a stellar Psychology Resume

There are several key tips to keep in mind when crafting a psychology resume, such as using a clear and professional font, including relevant keywords, quantifying your accomplishments, and showcasing your specific skills and experiences. We will delve into these tips and more throughout the rest of the article to help you create a standout psychology resume.

Skills Section

A. Importance of the Skills section in a Psychology Resume

The Skills section in a Psychology Resume is crucial because it highlights the candidate’s abilities that make them stand out from other applicants. It is a section where you can showcase your knowledge, talents, and expertise that are relevant to the field of psychology. It also provides a quick snapshot of your qualifications for hiring managers to review quickly.

B. Top skills to include in a Psychology Resume

When crafting your Psychology Resume, it is essential to include some key skills that are highly sought-after in the industry. These top skills may include:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathy and active listening
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people and backgrounds
• Experience administering assessments and evaluations
• Knowledge of research methods and statistics
• Effective time management and organizational skills
• Familiarity with relevant software and technology
• Commitment to ethical principles and practices

C. How to showcase your skills effectively in a Psychology Resume

To showcase your skills effectively, you must emphasize your most relevant skills and experiences. Your Skills section should be concise and relevant to the job posting. Only include skills that align with the employer’s requirements, and highlight the ones that set you apart from others.

When describing your skills, use strong action verbs and specific examples to illustrate your capabilities. For example, instead of stating that you have “excellent communication skills,” mention that you “collaborated with a team of five to create a successful program that increased client satisfaction by 20%.”

Lastly, consider including your experience working with specific populations or groups, as well as any specialized training or certifications you have received. This added information will help employers gain a better understanding of how your skills can be applied to their specific needs.

Your Skills section is an opportunity to demonstrate your value and stand out in a competitive job market. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can increase your chances of getting hired in the field of psychology.

Summary Section

The Summary section in a psychology resume is a concise and impactful paragraph that summarizes your experience, qualifications, and traits as a professional psychologist. Its purpose is to quickly grab the employer’s attention and showcase your ability to meet the needs of the position in a unique way.

A. Purpose of a Summary section in a Psychology Resume

The Summary section is strategically placed at the top of the psychology resume, right after the contact information. It gives the hiring manager a quick preview of your suitability for the role and encourages them to read the rest of your application. A well-crafted Summary section can differentiate you from other applicants and increase the likelihood of getting an interview.

B. Examples of effective Summary sections in Psychology Resumes

Examples of good Summary sections include:

“Dedicated and compassionate psychologist with more than five years of experience providing individual and group therapy to children and adults. Skilled in using cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to address emotional and behavioral issues.”

“Goal-driven and empathic psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and expertise in treating patients with depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Experience working in private practice, community health centers, and hospital settings.”

“Innovative and collaborative psychologist with a strong research background in social psychology and mental health. Skilled in designing and implementing research projects, measuring outcomes, and presenting findings at national conferences.”

C. Tips for crafting a powerful and attention-grabbing Summary section

To create a compelling Summary section, consider these tips:

Keep it concise: Aim to write a Summary section that is no longer than five sentences.

Highlight your unique selling proposition: Use engaging language to communicate your strengths, accomplishments, and value as a psychologist.

Avoid cliches: Don’t use overused phrases like “hard-working,” “team player,” or “results-driven.” Instead, use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experiences.

Tailor it to the job description: Customize your Summary section to align with the role’s requirements and responsibilities.

By following these tips, you can impress potential employers with a powerful and attention-grabbing Summary section that highlights your expertise as a psychologist.

Objective section

The Objective section is an essential part of a Psychology Resume as it sets the tone for your candidacy. This part of the resume should highlight your career goals and what you can bring to the table as a professional in the psychology field.

A. Purpose of an Objective section in a Psychology Resume

The Objective section serves as a brief summary of your career aspirations and how you plan to achieve them. This section also allows you to highlight the skills and experience you bring to the position. Hiring managers and recruiters often use this section to quickly determine whether or not you are a good fit for the role they are hiring for.

B. Examples of effective Objective sections in Psychology Resumes

An effective Objective section in a Psychology Resume is concise, targeted, and customized to the position you are applying for. Here are a few examples:

Seeking an entry-level position in a clinical psychology setting that will allow me to apply my education and experience to help patients achieve their mental health goals.

To obtain a position in a research-focused organization that will leverage my strong analytical and statistical skills to contribute to groundbreaking intellectual pursuits in the psychology field.

Looking for a challenging role in a community mental health setting where I can utilize my counseling and communication skills to positively impact the lives of individuals and families.

C. Tips for crafting a focused and compelling Objective section

Crafting a compelling Objective section requires a bit of finesse. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Customize the language and focus of your Objective section to the position you are applying for. Avoid generic statements that could apply to any job.

Highlight your unique skills and experience in the psychology field that set you apart from other candidates.

Be concise and clear. The Objective section should be no more than a few sentences, so focus on the most important information about your career goals and skills.

Avoid cliches and buzzwords. Instead, focus on specific skills and experience that you bring to the position.

By following these tips, you can craft a focused and compelling Objective section that sets you apart from other candidates and grabs the attention of hiring managers in the psychology field.

Work Experience Section

The work experience section is one of the most crucial parts of a psychology resume. This section not only provides a detailed timeline of your professional journey but also demonstrates your practical skills and achievements. The work experience section highlights your relevant experience and showcases your ability to solve problems, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively.

A. Importance of the Work Experience Section in a Psychology Resume

Recruiters and hiring managers who review psychology resumes typically prioritize the work experience section. This section allows them to assess a candidate’s level of experience, evaluate their ability to work well in a team, and understand their specific contributions to their previous workplaces. Therefore, having a well-written work experience section is imperative if you want to stand out in a competitive job market.

B. How to Write about Your Work Experience in a Psychology Resume

When writing your work experience section, it’s crucial to focus on the skills and experiences that align with the job you’re applying for. Start with your most recent work experience and work backward to your earlier career experiences. Make sure you include the company name, job title, employment dates, and a brief description of the position’s responsibilities. List any relevant coursework, supervised experiences, and clinical experiences in separate sections.

Use bullet points to highlight specific achievements and accomplishments while describing each role you held. Consider including the clinical populations or specialties you worked with, your therapeutic approach, and any modalities used (e.g., CBT, DBT, etc.). To showcase your leadership skills, describe any team management or training, supervisory experience, or program development or management experience.

C. Examples of Effective Work Experience Sections in Psychology Resumes

Below are some examples of effective work experience sections from psychology resumes:

Clinical Psychologist (2018-Present)

ABC Healthcare Organization

• Conducted clinical assessments and provided evidence-based treatments for children and families with a range of mental health disorders
• Developed and implemented treatment plans, including psychotherapy, parent training, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Facilitated group therapy sessions and provided individual consultation for clinical staff on complex cases
• Supervised pre-doctoral interns and postdoctoral fellows, overseeing their caseloads and providing feedback on clinical progress

Behavioral Analyst (2016-2020)

XYZ School District

• Developed and implemented behavior intervention plans for students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Conducted functional behavioral assessments to identify the root causes of challenging behavior
• Co-facilitated social skills groups and provided classroom-based behavioral support for students
• Collaborated with school staff, parents, and community providers to coordinate services and ensure continuity of care.

D. Tips for Showcasing Your Achievements and Impact in a Work Experience Section

When describing your accomplishments, focus on outcomes that demonstrate your value to the organization.

Education section

The Education section is an essential part of your psychology resume because it showcases your academic qualifications and relevant coursework. Your educational background provides potential employers with valuable insights into your knowledge and expertise in psychology.

A. Importance of the Education section in a Psychology Resume

The Education section in your psychology resume should present your academic achievements and demonstrated ability in your field of study. It emphasizes your willingness to learn and develop your skills, which is highly valued in the psychology industry. Hiring managers will look for this section in a candidate’s psychology resume to evaluate if their education matches the requirements of the job.

B. How to display your education credentials in a Psychology Resume

You can display your education credentials clearly on your psychology resume by listing your degree, institution, major, and graduation date. Start with your most recent degree and work your way backward, including any relevant coursework and research work. You can also include any academic honors, scholarships, or awards that you received.

C. Examples of effective Education sections in Psychology Resumes

Take a look at these examples of effective Education sections in Psychology Resumes:

Master of Science in Psychology – University of California, Los Angeles | Graduated 2021

-Relevant Coursework: Statistics for Psychologists, Research Methods in Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Neuroscience.

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – University of Michigan | Graduated 2018

-Honors: Dean’s List, Cum Laude

D. Tips for highlighting your academic achievements and relevant coursework

To showcase your academic achievements and relevant coursework, you can add a coursework section. This section should highlight the most relevant courses and research work you completed. You can also incorporate your research work into your psychology resume in the experience or skills section. Additionally, emphasizing academic honors, conferences, or any additional academic activities shows your dedication to your field.

Your Education section in your psychology resume should highlight your academic qualifications, relevant coursework, and any academic honors to show the hiring manager that you have the required expertise to carry out the job’s duties.

Certifications and Licenses section

As a psychology professional, including a Certifications and Licenses section in your resume is crucial. This section provides the hiring manager with evidence of your qualifications and expertise, and offers a quick and easy way to distinguish yourself from other applicants.

A. Purpose of the Certifications and Licenses section in a Psychology Resume

The primary purpose of the Certifications and Licenses section is to highlight your professional credentials that are relevant to the psychology industry. This section emphasizes your commitment to your field and your level of knowledge and expertise. Additionally, employers may require certain certifications or licenses for certain roles, so including these in your resume allows them to quickly determine if you meet those requirements.

B. Which certifications and licenses should you include in your Psychology Resume

When selecting what certifications and licenses to include in your psychology resume, you should consider those that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a position as a School Psychologist, then including your National School Psychology Certification would be vital.

Here are some common examples of certifications and licenses that you might include in your psychology resume:

• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)
• National School Psychology Certification (NSPC)
• Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP)
• Certified Mental Health Counselor (CMHC)
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Certified School Psychologist (CSP)
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

C. Examples of effective Certifications and Licenses sections in Psychology Resumes

Certifications and Licenses:

• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in Clinical Psychology

This psychology resume showcases the candidate’s highest level of certification and licensure in their field, which is the ABPP in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, they include their LCP and CMHC licenses, highlighting their broad range of mental health expertise.

This psychology resume is tailored towards school psychology positions. Including the NSPC and CSP demonstrates their expertise in the field and their commitment to meeting the rigorous certification standards required for school psychology professionals.

• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in Counseling Psychology

This psychology resume emphasizes the candidate’s multiple areas of expertise, including counseling psychology and behavior analysis. Including their ABPP in Counseling Psychology and LPC license highlights their counseling skills, while their BCBA certification emphasizes their ability to work with individuals exhibiting complex behaviors.

Training and Professional Development section

In a competitive job market, showcasing your training and professional development can make all the difference in your psychology resume.

A. Importance of the Training and Professional Development section in a Psychology Resume

Hiring managers want to know that you are serious about your career in psychology and that you are dedicated to staying up-to-date on the latest research, techniques, and best practices. Inclusion of a comprehensive Training and Professional Development section in your psychology resume can demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning and growth.

B. How to showcase your training and continuing education in a Psychology Resume

When creating your Training and Professional Development section, prioritize relevant information such as your degree, certification, or licensing information. Mentioning any relevant continuing education courses or workshops can also help set you apart from other applicants. Be sure to only include information that is relevant to your psychology career goals.

C. Examples of effective Training and Professional Development sections in Psychology Resumes

• Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, XYZ University
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology, ABC University
• Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the State of California
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D)
• Certified Autism Specialist (CAS)
• Completed 40-hour RBT training course

D. Tips for highlighting your commitment to professional growth and development

• List out all relevant education and training experiences in reverse chronological order
• Include any relevant professional association memberships
• Mention any volunteer or community service work that relates to your psychology career goals
• Emphasize your passion for learning and growing as a professional in the psychology field
• Customize your Training and Professional Development section for each job application to highlight the most relevant information for that particular role.

By following these tips and including a comprehensive Training and Professional Development section in your psychology resume, you can demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and development to potential employers.

Awards and Honors Section

As a psychology professional, it’s essential to highlight not only your educational background and experience but also any recognition you’ve received throughout your career. The awards and honors section in your psychology resume is an excellent opportunity to showcase your accomplishments and distinguish yourself from other candidates.

A. Purpose of the Awards and Honors section in a Psychology Resume

The purpose of including an awards and honors section in your psychology resume is to demonstrate your level of professional achievement and recognize your expertise in the field. This section also shows that you have a track record of success, which can catch the attention of hiring managers and potentially increase your chances of landing a job.

B. What Awards and Honors Should You Include in Your Psychology Resume

The awards and honors you should include in your psychology resume should directly relate to the field and emphasize your expertise. Some examples could include academic honors, research awards, publications, grants, scholarships, and professional affiliations. It’s best to select the most noteworthy and relevant accomplishments that showcase your abilities and stand out to potential employers.

C. Examples of Effective Awards and Honors Sections in Psychology Resumes

• Academic Honors:  Summa Cum Laude, Dean’s List, Honor Society
• Research Awards:  Best Presentation Award, Outstanding Abstract Award, Research Grant Award
• Publications:  Published in APA Journal, Co-Author on Book Chapter, Featured in Popular Psychology Magazine
• Grants and Scholarships:  Funded by NIH Grant, Recipient of Graduate Fellowship, Awarded Psi Chi Scholarship
• Professional Affiliations:  Active Member of APA, Chair of State Psychology Association, Invited Speaker at Regional Conference

D. Tips for showcasing your accomplishments and recognition in an Awards

To effectively showcase your achievements and recognition in the awards and honors section of your psychology resume, consider the following tips:

• Keep it brief: Only include the most significant awards and honors that relate to your field.
• Be specific: Include any relevant details such as the award name, date, and the reason for receiving it.
• Use action verbs: Describe your accomplishments in a concise and engaging manner by utilizing action verbs such as “awarded,” “recognized,” and “selected.”
• Prioritize: Organize the awards and honors section in order of relevance and importance to the position you are applying for.
• Quantify: Whenever possible, include specific numbers or percentages to demonstrate the impact of your accomplishments.

Including an awards and honors section in your psychology resume can significantly enhance your chances of standing out to hiring managers. By selecting the most relevant and impressive achievements, you can highlight your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to the field of psychology.

Related Articles

• 10 Scrum Master Resume Samples That Will Impress
• Self Assessment: Guide on How to Learn About Yourself
• 10 Hostess Resume Examples to Stand Out
• Public Relations Director Job Description: Complete Guide
• Scrum Master Resume Samples & Template: Complete Guide

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Medical Resumes
• Therapist Resume Guide & Examples

Psychologist Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Jump to a template:

• Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Jump to a resource:

• Psychologist Resume Tips

Psychologist Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., psychologist resume sample.

In the world of psychology, a remarkable resume isn't just a list of qualifications, but a testament to your understanding of human behavior, thought processes and clinical techniques. The field is continually advancing, calling for professionals that are up-to-date with the current trends like teletherapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques. When crafting your resume, it's essential to convey both the depth of your knowledge and your ability to adapt to new therapeutic strategies. Remember, employers in psychology often seek individuals with an exceptional aptitude for empathy, communication, and problem-solving. Demonstrating these traits creatively without sounding generic is the key.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your psychologist resume in 2024,    show specialized expertise in your skills section.

In a field as broad as psychology, it's crucial to differentiate yourself. If you've honed a particular therapeutic approach or specialize in treating certain disorders, make sure to prominently feature this in your skills section.

   Detail your therapy successes in your work experience

Real-world results matter in psychology. Instead of merely listing your job duties under work experience, provide examples of therapy sessions where your contribution made a tangible difference. But remember, you should always respect confidentiality and anonymity.

Counseling Psychologist Resume Sample

As a government agency, we have spoken with hiring managers at top companies and organizations that hire psychologists, such as hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, and private practices. Based on their insights and our expertise, we have compiled a list of essential tips to help you create a standout psychologist resume that will impress potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

   Highlight your specialized training and certifications

Employers seek psychologists with specific expertise and training. Showcase your specialized certifications, licenses, and training to demonstrate your qualifications:

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) in the state of California
• Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) by the Beck Institute, completing a 40-hour training program
• Completed a 2-year post-doctoral fellowship in Pediatric Psychology at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

By highlighting your specialized training, you show employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your target role.

   Quantify your impact with specific metrics

When describing your professional experience, use specific numbers and metrics to quantify your impact. This helps employers better understand the scope of your work and achievements.

• Conducted over 150 individual therapy sessions per year, maintaining a 95% patient satisfaction rate
• Developed and implemented a group therapy program for 25 patients, resulting in a 30% reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Administered and interpreted psychological assessments for 50+ clients annually, providing detailed reports and treatment recommendations

In contrast, avoid vague or generic statements that lack context or measurable impact, such as:

• Conducted therapy sessions
• Developed group therapy programs
• Administered psychological assessments

   Tailor your resume to the specific role and organization

Customize your resume for each job application to showcase your most relevant skills and experiences. Research the organization and the specific role to identify key qualifications and tailor your resume accordingly.

For example, if you are applying for a school psychologist position, emphasize your experience working with children and adolescents, as well as your knowledge of educational assessments and interventions:

• Conducted comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for 30+ students per year, identifying learning disabilities and providing individualized recommendations
• Collaborated with teachers and parents to develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special needs

By tailoring your resume to the specific role and organization, you demonstrate your fit for the position and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

   Showcase your research and publications

If you have conducted research or published articles in your field, be sure to include this information on your resume. This demonstrates your expertise and contributions to the field of psychology.

List your publications using a standard citation format, such as APA style:

• Smith, J., & Doe, J. (2021). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing symptoms of anxiety: A meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 77(3), 123-145.

If you have presented your research at conferences or symposia, include this information as well:

• Presented research findings on the impact of social media on adolescent mental health at the American Psychological Association Annual Convention, August 2020

Including your research and publications on your resume showcases your expertise and dedication to advancing the field of psychology.

   Highlight your experience with diverse populations

As a psychologist, you may work with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Employers value candidates who have experience working with a wide range of populations and can provide culturally sensitive care.

On your resume, emphasize your experience working with diverse groups, such as:

• Provided individual and group therapy to a culturally diverse clientele, including African American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ individuals
• Conducted workshops on cultural competency for a team of 15 mental health professionals, focusing on best practices for working with immigrant and refugee populations

By highlighting your experience with diverse populations, you demonstrate your ability to provide inclusive and culturally responsive care to a wide range of clients.

   Include relevant volunteer and leadership experience

In addition to your professional experience, include relevant volunteer work and leadership roles on your resume. This can help demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to make a positive impact in your community.

For example, you might include:

• Volunteered as a crisis counselor for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, providing support and resources to individuals in crisis
• Served as the president of the graduate student psychology association, organizing educational events and advocating for student needs

However, avoid including volunteer experience that is not relevant to your target role or the field of psychology, such as:

• Volunteered at local animal shelter
• Participated in a community cleanup event

While these experiences may be valuable, they do not directly relate to your skills and qualifications as a psychologist. Focus on including volunteer and leadership experience that showcases your relevant skills and dedication to the field.

Writing Your Psychologist Resume: Section By Section

  summary.

A resume summary for a Psychologist is an optional section that appears at the top of your resume. It provides a brief overview of your professional experience, skills, and achievements, tailored to the specific Psychologist position you're applying for. While a summary can be a helpful addition to your resume, it's not always necessary, especially if your work history and qualifications are already well-aligned with the job requirements.

On the other hand, a resume objective statement, which focuses on your career goals rather than your qualifications, should be avoided altogether. Employers are more interested in what you can bring to the table, not what you hope to gain from the job.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Psychologist resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Psychologist Resume Summary Examples , or Psychologist Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your specialized expertise and clinical focus

When crafting your Psychologist resume summary, focus on your specific area of expertise and the types of patients you work with. This helps employers quickly understand your specialization and determine if you're a good fit for their needs. For example:

Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 8+ years of experience providing evidence-based treatments for children and adolescents with anxiety disorders. Skilled in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT). Committed to helping young patients develop coping strategies and improve their overall well-being.

Avoid generic statements that could apply to any Psychologist, such as:

• Experienced Psychologist seeking a challenging position
• Dedicated mental health professional with a passion for helping others

2. Quantify your achievements and impact

When possible, use numbers and metrics to showcase the impact of your work as a Psychologist. This helps employers understand the scope of your experience and the value you can bring to their organization. For instance:

• Conducted 1,000+ clinical assessments and developed individualized treatment plans for a diverse client population
• Implemented a group therapy program that reduced patient readmission rates by 30% over a 6-month period

In contrast, avoid vague or subjective statements that don't provide concrete evidence of your abilities, such as:

• Helped many patients overcome their mental health challenges
• Developed effective treatment plans for a wide range of conditions

  Experience

Your work experience section is the heart of your psychologist resume. It's where you highlight your most relevant and impactful professional experiences, skills, and achievements. Hiring managers will spend the most time reviewing this section, so it's important to make it compelling and easy to read.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind as you write your work experience section:

1. Highlight relevant clinical experience

When listing your work experience, focus on the roles and responsibilities that are most relevant to the psychologist position you're applying for. This may include:

• Conducting psychological assessments and evaluations
• Providing individual, group, or family therapy sessions
• Developing and implementing treatment plans
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals

Be specific about the types of patients you worked with and the therapeutic approaches you used. For example:

Conducted comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and anxiety disorders. Utilized cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy techniques to help patients develop coping skills and improve emotional regulation.

2. Use strong, psychology-specific action verbs

When describing your work experience, use strong, active verbs that showcase your skills and accomplishments. Avoid generic phrases like "responsible for" or "worked on." Instead, use psychology-specific verbs that demonstrate your expertise, such as:

• Facilitated

For example, instead of saying:

• Worked with patients to help them manage stress and anxiety
• Counseled patients using evidence-based stress management techniques, resulting in a 30% reduction in reported anxiety symptoms

3. Quantify your achievements with metrics

Whenever possible, use specific numbers and metrics to quantify your achievements and demonstrate your impact. This could include:

• Number of patients treated
• Percentage of patients who showed improvement
• Number of therapy groups facilitated
• Percentage of positive patient feedback

For example:

Provided individual therapy to a caseload of 25-30 patients per week, with 85% of patients reporting significant improvement in symptoms after 12 weeks of treatment.

Metrics help hiring managers understand the scope and impact of your work, and make your accomplishments more tangible and impressive.

4. Highlight promotions and leadership roles

If you've been promoted or taken on leadership roles in your previous positions, be sure to highlight this in your work experience section. This shows that you've been recognized for your skills and contributions, and have the potential to take on more responsibility.

Promoted from Staff Psychologist to Clinical Supervisor after just 2 years, overseeing a team of 5 psychologists and leading weekly case consultation meetings.

Leadership experience is especially valuable if you're applying for a more senior-level position or if the job description emphasizes management skills.

  Education

Your education section is a vital component of your psychologist resume. It showcases your academic qualifications and specialized training, which are essential for securing a position in this competitive field. Here are some key tips to keep in mind when crafting your education section:

1. Highlight your psychology degree

As a psychologist, your education is the foundation of your career. Make sure to prominently feature your psychology degree(s) in your education section.

Include the following details for each degree:

• Name of the institution
• Location of the institution
• Degree earned (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology)
• Graduation date or expected graduation date

University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, CA Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology | Expected May 2024 Master of Science in Clinical Psychology | May 2022 Bachelor of Science in Psychology | May 2020

2. Showcase relevant coursework and research

If you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience, highlighting relevant coursework and research can help demonstrate your expertise and passion for the field.

Examples of relevant coursework for psychologists include:

• Abnormal Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Research Methods in Psychology

When listing research experience, include the title of your research project, a brief description, and any notable findings or publications.

Relevant Coursework: Abnormal Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology Research Experience: "The Impact of Mindfulness Meditation on Anxiety Disorders" | Conducted a randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing symptoms of anxiety disorders. Findings published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

3. Include relevant licenses and certifications

In many states, psychologists are required to hold specific licenses or certifications to practice. If you have obtained any relevant licenses or certifications, include them in your education section.

Examples of licenses and certifications for psychologists include:

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP)
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• National Certified Counselor (NCC)
• Certified School Psychologist (CSP)

Licenses and Certifications: Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) | California Board of Psychology | License #12345 | Expires: December 2025 National Certified Counselor (NCC) | National Board for Certified Counselors | Certificate #67890 | Expires: June 2024

4. Keep it concise for senior-level positions

If you are a senior-level psychologist with extensive work experience, you can keep your education section brief. Focus on your most recent and relevant degrees, and consider omitting the graduation year to prevent potential age discrimination.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology | University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | 1995
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology | University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | 1993
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology | University of California, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | 1991

Instead, keep it concise and focus on your most relevant qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology | University of California, Berkeley
• M.S. in Clinical Psychology | University of California, Berkeley

  Skills

The skills section of your resume is one of the most important parts, as it shows hiring managers what you're capable of. It's also a place where many job seekers make mistakes, which can lead to their resume being rejected. Here are some tips to help you write a strong skills section for your psychologist resume:

1. Include relevant psychology skills

When listing your skills, make sure to include those that are directly relevant to the psychologist role you're applying for. Some examples of relevant skills for psychologists include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Psychotherapy
• Psychological assessment
• Treatment planning
• Crisis intervention

Avoid listing generic skills that could apply to any job, such as 'communication' or 'teamwork'. Instead, focus on the specific skills that make you a strong candidate for the psychologist position.

2. Use proficiency levels strategically

One way to make your skills section more impactful is to include proficiency levels. This gives hiring managers a better sense of your expertise in each area. For example:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) - Expert Psychological assessment - Advanced Crisis intervention - Intermediate

However, be honest about your proficiency levels. Don't claim to be an expert in a skill if you only have basic knowledge, as this can backfire if you're asked about it in an interview.

3. Be mindful of Applicant Tracking Systems

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they even reach a human hiring manager. These systems scan your resume for keywords related to the job description. If your resume doesn't contain enough of the right keywords, it may be automatically rejected.

To optimize your skills section for ATS, make sure to use the exact same language as the job description when possible. For example, if the job description mentions 'cognitive behavioral therapy', use that exact phrase in your skills section instead of just 'CBT'.

4. Avoid outdated or irrelevant skills

When listing your skills, it's important to avoid anything outdated or irrelevant to the current job market. For example, listing a skill like 'Freudian psychoanalysis' may make your resume seem out of touch, since this technique is not widely used in modern psychology.

Freudian psychoanalysis Rorschach test interpretation Hypnotherapy

Instead, focus on skills that are currently in demand and relevant to the specific psychologist role you're applying for. Research the latest techniques and technologies in your field to make sure your skills are up to date.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) Psychological assessment

Skills For Psychologist Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Psychologist job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Dual Diagnosis
• Mindfulness
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Group Therapy
• Addiction Recovery
• Social Services
• Mental Health Counseling
• Interventions
• Case Management

Skills Word Cloud For Psychologist Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Psychologist job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

Similar resume templates.

• Therapist Resume Guide
• Pharmacy Technician Resume Guide
• Medical Technologist Resume Guide
• Microbiologist Resume Guide
• Nursing Resume Guide

Resume Guide: Detailed Insights From Recruiters

• Therapist Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

Improve your Psychologist resume, instantly.

Use our free resume checker to get expert feedback on your resume. You will:

•  Get a resume score compared to other Psychologist resumes in your industry.

•  Fix all your resume's mistakes.

•  Find the Psychologist skills your resume is missing.

•  Get rid of hidden red flags the hiring managers and resume screeners look for.

It's instant, free and trusted by 1+ million job seekers globally. Get a better resume, guaranteed .

Psychologist Resumes

• Template #1: Psychologist
• Template #2: Psychologist
• Template #3: Counseling Psychologist
• Skills for Psychologist Resumes
• Free Psychologist Resume Review
• Other Medical Resumes
• Psychologist Interview Guide
• Psychologist Sample Cover Letters
• Alternative Careers to a Primary Therapist
• All Resumes
• Resume Action Verbs

Download this PDF template.

Creating an account is free and takes five seconds. you'll get access to the pdf version of this resume template., choose an option..

• Have an account? Sign in

E-mail Please enter a valid email address This email address hasn't been signed up yet, or it has already been signed up with Facebook or Google login.

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number. It looks like your password is incorrect.

Remember me

Forgot your password?

Sign up to get access to Resume Worded's Career Coaching platform in less than 2 minutes

Name Please enter your name correctly

E-mail Remember to use a real email address that you have access to. You will need to confirm your email address before you get access to our features, so please enter it correctly. Please enter a valid email address, or another email address to sign up. We unfortunately can't accept that email domain right now. This email address has already been taken, or you've already signed up via Google or Facebook login. We currently are experiencing a very high server load so Email signup is currently disabled for the next 24 hours. Please sign up with Google or Facebook to continue! We apologize for the inconvenience!

Password Show Your password needs to be between 6 and 50 characters long, and must contain at least 1 letter and 1 number.

Receive resume templates, real resume samples, and updates monthly via email

By continuing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Lost your password? Please enter the email address you used when you signed up. We'll send you a link to create a new password.

E-mail This email address either hasn't been signed up yet, or you signed up with Facebook or Google. This email address doesn't look valid.

Back to log-in

These professional templates are optimized to beat resume screeners (i.e. the Applicant Tracking System). You can download the templates in Word, Google Docs, or PDF. For free (limited time).

   access samples from top resumes, get inspired by real bullet points that helped candidates get into top companies.,    get a resume score., find out how effective your resume really is. you'll get access to our confidential resume review tool which will tell you how recruiters see your resume..

Writing an effective resume has never been easier .

Upgrade to resume worded pro to unlock your full resume review., get this resume template (+ 11 others), plus proven bullet points., for a small one-time fee, you'll get everything you need to write a winning resume in your industry., here's what you'll get:.

• 📄 Get the editable resume template in Google Docs + Word . Plus, you'll also get all 11 other templates .
• ✍️ Get sample bullet points that worked for others in your industry . Copy proven lines and tailor them to your resume.
• 🎯 Optimized to pass all resume screeners (i.e. ATS) . All templates have been professionally designed by recruiters and 100% readable by ATS.

Buy now. Instant delivery via email.

  instant access. one-time only., what's your email address.

I had a clear uptick in responses after using your template. I got many compliments on it from senior hiring staff, and my resume scored way higher when I ran it through ATS resume scanners because it was more readable. Thank you!

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

How to List Relevant Coursework on a Resume

List Only Relevant Coursework that Matches the Job Description

You don’t need to use the official name of the course, feature academic projects to further highlight your coursework, include academic awards and your gpa, how to align your coursework with the job description.

Listing relevant coursework from your bachelor’s degree program on your resume can be advantageous for entry-level job seekers starting out within their industry. There are two ways to accomplish this. Including the coursework as bullet points within your education section is one approach. The other option is to create a whole new section that allows you to list your coursework separately and provide more insights into what you learned during your program. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with examples to help you showcase your coursework and land your first entry-level position.

Ideally, you should only list coursework relevant to the position you are applying for on your resume. For instance, if you’re seeking an accounting position, it wouldn’t make much sense to include an elective you completed in continental philosophy. As your job search begins, carefully analyze each posting before incorporating your coursework.

The more relevant details you’re able to incorporate into your resume, the more likely you’ll be to generate interviews during your search. Coursework can be beneficial for entry-level professionals, as it can sometimes be challenging to fill out your document with strong qualifications due to a lack of work history. Below, we’ll review an example of a job seeker looking for a mental health counseling role:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Psychology COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, New York, NY September 2017 – May 2021

Coursework:

• Expressive Art Therapy
• Emotionally-Focused Therapy
• Psychotherapy
• Group & Family Counseling

Notice how in this first example, the job seeker is including both psychology and art courses in their education section. This might seem like a poor choice on the job seeker’s part, but in this situation, they’re actually demonstrating why they’re uniquely qualified for the position. Art therapy is a unique field within the mental health counseling space that utilizes a range of modalities and therapeutic approaches to help patients overcome trauma and cognitive disabilities. Showcasing their understanding of both art and psychology will show organizations that they have a dynamic skill set that can help them succeed within this niche clinical environment.

It’s important to understand that the names of courses vary significantly from university to university. If the official name of the course fails to convey what you were learning, you may want to use a relevant keyword as the course title instead. For instance, instead of “Intro Accounting 101”, you may want to use a title such as “Financial Accounting” instead. This will also help you to maintain compliance with Applicant Tracking System (ATS) requirements, as you can rename your courses to mirror high-impact keywords on the job description.

• Introduction to Developing Software 101
• Intro to Programming 102
• Advanced Computer Science 103
• Coding in the Modern Tech Landscape 103
• App Dev Capstone Course 104

Software Development Coursework

• Software Development Intro Course: Completed coursework on the fundamentals of software development, including the SDLC, application development, and JavaScript
• Python and JavaScript Programming: Completed a course on the use of Python and JavaScript for a variety of web development and software development projects
• Application Development Capstone : Completed a capstone course to build a functional mobile application in Python that enabled students to compare and contrast cost savings on used books and rentals versus new book prices

Notice how in the first example, the job seeker is using the exact names of the courses. Although “Coding in the Modern Tech Landscape” sounds like a good title, it doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything about what the student was learning during the course. In the second example, the candidate has changed the titles of the courses to better reflect the subject matter. They also provide fewer courses, and instead highlight more relevant details that match the position they’re applying for. This is a much more effective strategy for making a positive impression on the hiring manager and will greatly increase your chances of landing the interview.

If you’re going to list coursework on your resume, you should strongly consider building an academic projects section to provide deeper insights into your education experience and qualifications. It’s one thing to mention a Python class on your resume, but it’s another to showcase a project where you utilized this programming language to build a mobile application. Resumes with unique and compelling details are much more likely to grab the hiring manager’s attention, especially when applying for entry-level positions where the documents run the risk of appearing vague and generic. Below, you’ll find two examples to help you feature academic projects on your resume:

Academic Experience

Economics Projects, University of Syracuse, New York, NY September 2020 – May 2022

• Performed statistical analysis of financial trends within the housing market to create a predictive algorithm analyzing potential shifts based on a variety of economic factors, including foreclosures, housing market data, and projected household incomes
• Evaluated the risk and long-term ROI potential of a hypothetical start-up company by conducting a detailed analysis of the product use case, competitors, and market growth data

Web Development Projects, University of Michigan, Detroit, MI September 2020 – May 2022

• Designed and developed a web page featuring blogs, resources, and testimonials within the mobile gaming industry, including a platform for users to share insights
• Developed a mobile application to aid students in comparing and contrasting costs of used books and rentals across online stores and vendors, which included designing a feature to showcase cost savings of used books vs. new books in the university store

Another way to further enhance the impact of your coursework is by providing academic awards and recognitions on your resume. This will show hiring managers that you completed your coursework and excelled academically within your program. If your GPA is 3.6 or higher, you can also feel free to include it in your education section. If the number is lower, it may be better to omit it, as it won’t significantly impact your job application.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), English TEMPLE UNIVERSITY, Philadelphia, PA, September 2017 – May 2021 GPA: 3.87/4.0

• President, Hyphen Literary Magazine, 2020-2021
• Recipient of the Temple English Award, 2021
• Dean’s List 2017-2021
• Magna Cum Laude

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Computer Science UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO, CA September 2017 – May 2021 GPA: 3.7/4.0

• President of the University Robotics Club, 2017-2021
• Dean’s List, 2018-2021
• Summa Cum Laude

The most important aspect of the resume-building process is tailoring your document toward individual job descriptions. Breaking into your target industry following graduation can often be challenging for entry-level job seekers. Other candidates may have hands-on experience that you lack, and to make a case for your candidacy, you’ll need to show hiring managers that you have the ideal qualifications to succeed in the role.

As you build out your resume, you should start by determining how your skill sets and education experience match the needs of the organization you’re applying to. Remember that it’s okay to alter the name of a course to convey key skill sets more clearly for the hiring manager, provided it’s an accurate representation of what you learned during the course. For instance, if a company is seeking a candidate who excels in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), it’s acceptable to feature this as a course instead of using a broad and vague title provided by the university.

By tailoring your coursework toward the job description, you’ll maximize your chances of generating interviews over the course of your job hunt.

Craft your perfect resume in minutes

Get 2x more interviews with Resume Builder. Access Pro Plan features for a limited time!

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Land Your Dream Job Learn More
• How to Organize Your Job Search Learn More
• How to Include References in Your Job Search Learn More
• The Best Questions to Ask in a Job Interview Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Build the Perfect Computer Science Resume Learn More
• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More
• How to Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Sweepstakes
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

10 Psychology Courses You Can Take Online

If you're a psychology student, you will need to take a number of courses that focus on the science of human behavior. Your goal as a student is not only to fulfill the course requirements of your program department, but to also develop critical thinking skills, research competence, and in-depth knowledge of psychology that will serve you well as you advance in your academic and career pursuits.

Here are some of the top courses you should consider when selecting classes to take as an undergraduate psychology major. You should also keep in mind your coursework if you are minoring in a related area.

1. General Psychology

This introductory course offers an overview of the entire field of psychology. It may seem overwhelming at first, due to the sheer volume of information you'll learn, but this important class lays the groundwork for your future studies.

Remember, however, that the goal of this class is to provide an introduction to the history of psychology and the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. While it may seem like you are skimming over huge topics, you'll be able to delve deeper into these subjects in later courses.

2. History of Psychology

In order to understand contemporary psychology, it's important to look back at the origins and influences of this science. Courses on the history of psychology generally begin with the subject's ancient philosophical origins and explore the contributions of major thinkers up through the modern day .

3. Statistics

Statistics courses are a must for any psychology major, whether or not you plan to pursue a graduate degree later on. Statistics offers a core background for understanding how psychologists investigate human behavior.

This course generally focuses on statistical methods and techniques used by researchers. Many psychology graduate programs require at least one undergraduate course in statistics in order to gain admission to the program.

4. Experimental Psychology

A course in experimental psychology is an essential foundation for any psychology major. In this course, you will learn about basic research methods and experimental designs .   While course requirements may vary from one school to the next, most experimental psychology courses require students to perform experiments.

5. Physiological Psychology

In order to form a full understanding of the mind and behavior, it's important to develop your knowledge of the brain, neural actions, sensation and perception, basic neuroanatomy, and physiological processes. A course in physiological psychology serves as a good introduction to the field of neuropsychology, although it may be listed under an alternate course title such as behavioral neuroscience, biopsychology, or biological psychology.  

6. Cognitive Psychology

In this course, you will learn more about the cognitive process that forms the foundation of human behavior. Cognitive psychology involves the study of internal mental processes—all of the things that go on inside your brain, including perception, thinking, memory, attention , language, problem-solving , and learning.

7. Abnormal Psychology

Courses in abnormal psychology focus on the biological, environmental, and cultural influences on abnormal behavior. Some of the topics studied in this course might include mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosomatic disorders, and substance misuse.

In addition to exploring the background, assessment, and diagnosis of these disorders, students also explore some of the available treatment approaches.

8. Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology courses study the course of human development from conception throughout the lifespan.   In some cases, students may opt to take an encompassing course that provides an overview of development through life or choose to take a course that focuses primarily on child development .

Developmental psychology courses generally look at developmental changes in biological, emotional, and cognitive domains, as well as how factors such as family, school, peers, and culture impact this growth.

9. Social Psychology

Social psychology courses are focused on the scientific study of social influences on behavior and the interaction between individuals and groups.   Topics studied in this class include social pressure, leadership, nonverbal communication, persuasion, obedience, and the bystander effect . Social psychologists are interested in the impact that the social environment and group interactions have on  attitudes  and behaviors.

While there are many similarities to sociology, social psychology tends to look at social behavior and influences at a very broad-based level. Sociologists are interested in the institutions and cultures that influence how people behave. Psychologists instead focus on situational variables that affect social behavior.

10. Personality Psychology

A course in personality psychology offers a solid background in the numerous theories of personality development , including Freudian, psychosocial, behavioral, humanistic, and existential theories.  

This area of psychology seeks to understand personality and how it varies among individuals, as well as how people are similar. Psychologists also assess, diagnose, and treat personality disorders that can interfere with day-to-day life.

Psychology Electives You Chould Take

Beyond the general education and departmental requirements, you can then take elective courses based on your interests. Most psychology programs also require a minimum number of psychology electives in order to graduate.

During your first year or two of college, you should concentrate on taking the required general education and major classes. If you end up filling your schedule with elective courses during the early years of your college education, you may find yourself scrambling to play catch up during your junior and senior years.

By saving most of your electives for the third and fourth year, you'll be able to enjoy some fun and interesting courses when many of your required program courses are starting to get tougher and more challenging.

Electives for Psychology Majors

Many students choose to take elective courses that are related to their future career goals. For example, a student with an interest in  consumer psychology  might focus on electives in areas like marketing, advertising, social psychology, experimental design, and statistics.

Other students might opt to take some elective courses in psychology along with classes in other interest areas. For example, a student interested in pursuing a career in  art therapy  might take fine arts classes as part of her undergraduate electives.

Some of the electives that might be of interest to  psychology majors  include courses in:

• Public affairs
• Social work
• Anthropology
• Communications
• Criminal justice
• Health sciences
• English composition
• Political science

As you choose electives, think about how these courses relate to your career goals.

If you plan on being a research psychologist, classes in statistics, writing, and  research methods  would prove particularly useful. On the other hand, if you're thinking of a career in mental health, courses in biology and health sciences might be the most beneficial.

Talk to Your Advisor

Whether you are earning a BA or BS in psychology , selecting the classes that are right for your academic plan is important. This is why it is so important to talk to your academic advisor. Your advisor can inform you about specific university requirements, as well as make additional suggestions based on your major, interests, and goals.

A good idea is to make a four-year academic plan outlining the courses that you would like to take each semester. This not only ensures that you meet all of the requirements of your degree program, but it also allows you to see where you can schedule in elective courses.

Where to Find Online Psychology Courses

You can find psychology courses online through sites like Coursera and edX. Some of these psychology courses are offered for free. Others can be taken for a fee, or you only pay if you want a certificate of completion.

Each online provider has its own psychology courses list, some of which include:

• Introduction to Psychology
• Fundamentals of Psychology
• Exploring Psychology's Core Concepts
• Introduction to Developmental, Social & Clinical Psychology
• Psychological First Aid
• Positive Psychology

Online psychology courses are offered by many colleges and universities. Taking college-level psychology courses can satisfy your interest as well as help provide the education needed for a career in this field.

A Word From Verywell

College is a time to prepare for your future and explore your academic interests. Consider your future plans when picking classes. If you are thinking that you might want to go to graduate school, research which classes you will probably need to take in order to apply to these programs. Taking a hard look at the different classes you will need now and in the future may help you determine if going to graduate school in psychology is the right choice for you.

While you should certainly focus on your core courses first and foremost, you should plan on scheduling at least a few elective courses in order to get the minimum credits needed to graduate.

Elective courses are an excellent way to learn more about new subjects and broaden your education, so spend some time browsing through your school's course catalog to familiarize yourself with what is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no single "best course" when studying psychology as they can all contribute to your understanding of this expansive field. Instead, it is more a matter of which area of psychology you'd like to specialize in or the branch of psychology that interests you most.

If you want to major in psychology, it can be helpful to study subjects such as life and social sciences, math, and communication. Taking these types of courses in high school can help better prepare you for a psychology career.

If you have a passion for psychology, you might find a career in this field satisfying. Some psychology professionals enjoy working one-on-one with people with mental illness or mental health issues. Others like the research side of psychology, seeking to understand more about how we think, feel, and behave.

There is no one-size-fits-all-answer to this question. Some people may find psychology courses more difficult than others. Or they may find a specific psychology subject harder to understand. If you have an interest in psychology, learning about this topic can still be enjoyable, even if it takes a bit more mental effort.

Kuther TL. The Psychology Major's Handbook. Boston, MA: Cengage Learning; 2016.

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Resume Templates

Create and edit your resume online

Generate compelling resumes with our user-friendly tool and secure employment quickly.

Resume examples for 217 jobs

Writing the perfect resume with our help just got easier. Check our resume guides for the job you desire.

Most Popular Resume Examples

Featured articles

• Free Online Certifications to Add to Your Resume
• Make Shadowing Hours a Part of Your Resume
• How to Decline a Job Offer but Keep the Door Open

Latests articles

• The Definitive Guide to Resume Review With AI
• How to Write a Resume for Skills-Based Hiring
• How to Show Your Achievements on a Resume: STAR & CAR Methods
• Improve Your LinkedIn Profile Using ChatGPT
• 5 Tips for Using ChatGPT in Your Interview Prep

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Make use of expert tips & tricks to to help you build the perfect resume

Listing Relevant Coursework on a Resume: Get it Right!

Offering a very thin resume translates to modest employment potentials for newbie job hunters. Increasing the chances of finding work is dependent on the impression you make on the recruiter.

The best way to accomplish this is to have a major asset up your sleeve to enrich your resume—your overall coursework. It might not seem as relevant, but showcasing your coursework in your resume shows you’re a knowledgeable and well-prepared applicant for any position.

Featuring relevant coursework in your resume will build up your credibility—especially if you can share your projects and academic achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

It’s crucial to remember when you are making your resume that it should not be a catalog of volunteer work or an internship —but a tailor-made document that emphasizes the professional qualities you need to get the job.

But, what makes coursework essential on a resume?

More importantly, how does getting your coursework into your resume template make for a more professional impression?

Read on as we answer these and more below and discuss the importance of featuring relevant coursework in your resume.

In this post, you will find:

What is Relevant Coursework on a Resume?

A resume featuring relevant coursework consists of various courses you took at school, alongside the academic experiences that actually apply to the job position. The education section is the best place in a resume for coursework as it highlights your most hirable achievements concerning the role.

Still, both the subjects and projects listed must be relevant for the job position.

For example, being a debate champion has nothing to do with culinary arts. Instead, pointing out that you took and excelled in a class on economics at college is far more appropriate for that accounting position you’re applying for.

It is also not important to list the number of subjects you studied as a students part of your resume coursework . The specifics of what you studied, on the other hand, will be what counts the most in the employer’s eyes. Solely listing a course on resumes will not be enough in making those highlights stand out.

A resume with relevant coursework targets the skills vital for the target job and steers clear of stuffing the resume with filler information. The best approach to listing courses on resumes is to include projects, internships, and certificates you have acquired.

How to Write a Resume: The Ins and Outs

If you are wondering how to add relevant classes/courses on a resume , there are a couple of principles to follow for the best results.

When to Include and Exclude Relevant Coursework

Relevant coursework you add to your resume can include a past or present class you are taking or projects you were involved with. Not just that, it’s also highly recommended to list examples of where you have competence in a given field, and the degree of experience that will interest your employer in taking a chance on you.

Some instances when you should include your relevant coursework on your resume are:

• If you are a recent graduate . The education system aims to prepare students to join the workforce immediately. However, employers always want to see clear evidence of your core competencies , which can be conveyed via your coursework projects.
• Lacking work experience . If you haven’t had a full time job in your sector before, you can build credibility by including related resume coursework, thus showcasing your professional potential for the suitable position. Check our guide on how to write a resume with no experience and to make the most of your education and related coursework to catch the recruiter’s attention.
• A change of career . You may be a highly qualified professional in a given industry. Still, if you decide to change industry, you’ll be forfeiting your status as an experienced professional and starting from scratch as a rookie.

Our free online resume builder lets you can add relevant coursework easily to showcase your professional potential, that, in tandem with your work ethic, can make you a good fit for your desired position.

When to Exclude Coursework from Your Resume

With all this being said, there are also occurrences when it’s wiser to exclude coursework on your resume:

• If your resume is too long . If you’re blessed with both skills and work experience, you can afford to be selective and choose what’s appropriate. Unless you have a crucial certification for the job, listing all the relative coursework may be misunderstood as a not-so-subtle attempt to impress.
• Outdated coursework . You just celebrated your class reunion, but it’s been20 years since your graduation. Times have changed, and with them, so has the curriculum used for college classes. So, it could be better to leave out some irrelevant details from the resume altogether.
• Not relevant to the position . Let’s not forget that resume coursework must be compatible with the job opening. After all, it’s called relevant coursework for a good reason. So, if the coursework has nothing in common with the job you are going for, there’s no benefit in mentioning the coursework at all.

How to List Relevant Coursework

Depending on the structure of your resume and the information you provide, there are several ways you can add relevant coursework to your resume. Remember, the entry-level candidate resume should not be longer than one page. Also, don’t forget to mention online courses you’ve completed and to place the relevant coursework in the right order.

If a job requires educational achievements, put your education at the top of the list.

If a skill in the job posting appears to be a priority for your potential employee, you ought to list both relevant internships and projects that align with this desired skill.

The visuals of the resume are important, so consider a column or a detailed resume format. Below are a few different ways to list any relevant course on resumes. Look at them!

Single-column format

The single-column format is similar to the education part of the resume, promoting your relevant coursework in list form.

As a practical resume example, a candidate applying for a psychology job should include the following:

Bachelor’s in Psychology Columbia University, New York Graduation: 2019

Relevant Coursework:

• Learning and Cognition
• Cognitive Linguistics
• Social Psychology
• Psychology of Emotion

Multi-column Format

If you have multiple skills you are looking to make the focal point of this section, consider a multi-column format. For each column, use a different header with the relevant courses listed underneath.

Example of a multi-column format:

Bachelor’s in Information Technology Pennsylvania State University, PA Graduation: 2020

Related Coursework:

• Application Development—developed IT concepts and skills for web development.
• Human-Centered Design—research into increasing the usability of IT systems with a human-centric approach.
• Networking and Telecommunications—studied transmission media, cybersecurity, and digital signal modulations.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning :

• Machine Learning: Studying the interrelation between AI and machine learning, its influence on business processes, and marketing teams.
• Artificial Intelligence implications for business strategy: Acquired knowledge to guide AI integrations into current companies to implement strategic decisions.

Detailed Format

A detailed format resume goes more in-depth than just using the course title. It provides more specifics on the skills you may have learned in each individual course. This format will look more like the layout you’re used to seeing under the work experience section of a resume.

Bachelor’s in Marketing University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN Graduation: 2020

Global Marketing Techniques

• Awareness of B2B marketing strategies, social media campaigning, public relations, and content creation.
• Studied the relationships between businesses and how acceptance to marketing is modified in contrast to B2C.

Public Relations

• Building contacts with editors, writing press releases, and pitching articles topics
• Implementing public relations campaigns, hosting open days, and event promotion.

Retail and Sales Management

• Learning the basics of marketing, copywriting, psychology of customers, analysis of data, and more.
• Formulating and implementing a marketing plan.

Coursework on a Resume: Conclusion

If you include relevant coursework on resumes, you make it easier to communicate the value you can bring to a business . Keep the job description in focus when choosing what information to incorporate when listing courses on resumes, and where you position it on the page.

Whether you opt for an online design tool, or want to use the free online resume builder of ResumeGiants specifically designed by professional resume experts—the details you put in it will be just as important as the things you decide to leave out.

Remember, at the end of the day, a quality resume is your signal bonfire to attract recruiters to your position—and including relevant coursework in it can be the fuel that ignites your dream career.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

• Undergraduate

Graduate Studies in Psychology

At Northwestern and elsewhere, only a minority of psychology majors go on to become psychologists. Those who do must earn graduate degrees; only people with graduate training in psychology, typically at the doctoral level, are referred to as psychologists. Some students pursue advanced psychology training in applied areas such as clinical, counseling, and industrial/organizational psychology. Others prepare for careers in research and/or college-level teaching.

An important point: You don’t have to major in psychology as an undergraduate in order to attend graduate school in psychology. Many graduate programs require specific courses in psychology as a prerequisite, and advanced courses in psychology or related fields are definitely a plus. However, depending on what area of specialization you choose, coursework in other areas – mathematics or biology, for example – might be seen as just as valuable. Relevant research experience may be as important as relevant coursework for entry to many graduate programs.

Extensive information on graduate study in psychology is available from the American Psychological Association.

How To List Relevant Coursework on Your Resume

Most students and recent graduates do not have a wealth of professional experience to list on a resume, so including relevant coursework can help potential employers get an idea of the skills and qualifications that you are currently developing. This article will cover what relevant coursework is as well as how and when to include it on your resume.

What is Relevant Coursework?

Relevant coursework refers to the classes and subjects that you studied in school which are useful for the position that you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to a marketing position and you have taken classes in psychology that focus on language, emotion, and motivation, that class would be considered relevant since the goal of marketing is to use language and emotion to motivate people to purchase goods and services.

Relevant coursework doesn’t only have to be strictly classes. You can also include academic projects like a thesis or dissertation as well as research that you have done. Online courses are also acceptable to list if they pertain to the job.

The courses and projects that you include must actually be relevant to the position that you are applying for. Don’t list your entire transcript - instead, choose the top 3-5 courses, projects, or subjects that are the most relevant.

If it’s not immediately clear why you are listing a course on your resume, consider including a brief description of the subject materials, projects you completed for the class, and/or how the class will help you perform in the position that you are applying for.

When To Include Relevant Coursework on Your Resume

Consider including relevant coursework on your resume if you are currently a student, you’ve recently graduated, you are applying to an internship , or you are applying to entry-level positions. Additionally, if you are applying to academic or other education-focused positions, it may be appropriate to include relevant courses and details about your studies.

Especially if you have taken AP, IB, or honors classes, listing relevant courses on your resume can show potential employers that you are intelligent, dedicated, and studious.

Finally, if the employer asks for details like a certain degree or diploma, your GPA, or a portfolio of past projects that you have completed, that can be a cue that they will be pleased to see your relevant coursework on your resume as well.

When Not To Include Relevant Coursework

If you have more than a year of professional work experience , you likely don’t need to include relevant coursework on your resume. If you have more than five years of work experience, you almost definitely do not need to include high school or college coursework. Employers will be focused more on your recent work experience than classes that you took many years ago.

Additionally, if you are applying for entry-level positions where school coursework isn’t particularly relevant at all (such as waitstaff jobs, outdoor recreation positions, etc.) then you may be better off focusing on hard and soft skills and certifications over schoolwork.

Selecting relevant coursework to advance your career

If you’re at the beginning (or even in the middle) of your college journey, it’s important to consider your future career as you select your course load. This will ensure you can list relevant coursework on a resume when it’s time for you to begin job hunting. 

One way to do this is to research job titles you would like to have in the future and align the courses you select with the common skills listed in the job descriptions. If your school publishes a catalog, you may want to consult the course descriptions to figure out the skills you’ll gain from each course.

For example, someone who wants to go into marketing may take relevant courses in market research, consumer behavior, or emotional psychology. A person looking to be a graphic designer may need to take classes in typography, color theory, or UX design .

In some cases, your intended career will dictate the coursework you must take. For example, if you intend to be a certified public accountant, you may be required to take classes in auditing, tax concepts, business administration, and forensics. These classes are necessary to obtain certification and work as a CPA.

However, even in these cases, your schedule may still leave room for elective courses. If so, choose classes that will help you build relevant skills for your profession. For an accountant, those skills might be communication, critical thinking, and research strategies. Your related coursework, alongside your academic achievements, will help you stand out as a thoughtful, well-prepared candidate.

Make sure you use the resources available to you, such as academic and career counselors. These professionals have extensive experience helping people choose relevant classes that align with their career goals, and they can likely design an academic track to help you get where you want to be.

How To List Your Relevant Coursework

When crafting your job application, you don’t need a special relevant coursework resume section. Instead, you can incorporate this information into standard resume sections. If you’ve decided that it makes sense for you to include your relevant coursework on your resume, here’s how to do so:

Add Courses to Your Education Section

Naturally, it makes the most sense to add relevant coursework to the education section of your resume. You can add a subsection under each degree that you earned or school that you attended, or you can place your coursework at the bottom underneath all of your school details.

If you have little or no professional experience , place your education section first on your resume, just below your header and your resume objective . You may also wish to use a functional or skill-based resume format to highlight your skills. If you do have some relevant professional experience to list, place that at the top and your education section underneath.

Use either a comma-separated list, a simple bulleted list, or a bulleted list with some additional details for each course.

For example, here’s how to list coursework in a comma-separated list:

BA in Journalism

UC Davis, Davis, CA

Relevant Coursework: Ethical Journalism, Global Journalism, Technical Writing

You can also use a bulleted list, which can be helpful if you want to demonstrate proficiency in multiple fields:

Relevant Coursework: Journalism

• Ethical Journalism
• Global Journalism
• Editor of the weekly student newspaper
• Completed Research Internship with LA Times

Relevant Coursework: English

• Technical Writing
• Creative Writing
• Expository Writing

Finally, you may wish to include a short description of each course that reinforces its relevance to the job. When listing relevant coursework, you can include details about projects you completed in those classes. Here’s an example:

Relevant Coursework:

• Ethical Journalism - Learned principles and practices to ensure the accurate, complete, and fair exchange of information. Completed a hands-on project that included evaluating sources for real news stories to determine the accuracy of the reporting
• Global Journalism - Learned how to present news items with a global outlook and report on issues that affect the entire world
• Completed Research Internship with LA Times - Learned the basics of journalistic research and the processes involved in operating the largest metropolitan daily newspaper in the country

A comma-separated list will take up the least amount of precious space on your resume, but if your relevant coursework is the highlight of your resume and/or you have blank space to fill, you may wish to provide more detail about each course.

Tailor Your Relevant Coursework to Each Position

For every job you apply to, ensure that your resume lists only relevant coursework and projects that showcase job-related skills. Tailoring your entire resume to each position can help your application pass automated applicant tracking system ( ATS ) scans and get your resume into the hands of a human hiring manager. This can be achieved by using keywords and phrases from the job description as well as pertinent industry keywords throughout your resume to demonstrate that you have the qualifications , skills, and experience necessary for the job.

You can even tailor your education section and your relevant coursework to the job posting. Especially if you opt to use a detailed, bulleted list of relevant coursework, you can use the description of each course as an opportunity to include more keywords.

Start with the most relevant courses

Again, all the coursework that you include on your resume should be directly relevant to the position you are applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in the arts, you don’t need to give details about the math classes you took because they don’t represent relevant coursework. Resumes should always be customized for the position you want, and including unnecessary information prevents you from achieving that goal.

When listing courses, always start with the most relevant coursework first within your list. Most hiring managers will only spend a few seconds scanning your resume, so it’s crucial to put your most impressive and important details first.

Consider Adding Other Education Details

If you decide to include relevant coursework, you may wish to add other educational details and achievements as well to round out your academic background. For example, you might include your GPA (if it’s above a 3.5) and awards like honor roll, scholarships, dean’s list, being valedictorian/salutatorian, Latin honors (magna cum laude, etc.), and so forth. You can also include membership in school, national, or international honor societies, business or professional fraternities, and other groups or organizations.

Key Takeaways

Adding relevant coursework is a great way to beef up your resume if you do not have professional work experience to list, such as if you are currently a student, you’ve recently graduated, or you are applying to entry-level jobs. It can also be appropriate to include your coursework if you are applying for an academic-based position. If you do include your relevant coursework, ensure that it is, in fact, relevant - only include courses if they directly boost your ability to perform the job you are applying for.

Need help creating a resume to highlight your relevant coursework? Check out Jobseeker’s resume builder tool, which allows you to add your details and easily swap between resume templates , styles, colors, and more with just a few clicks. Then, download your polished, professional resume instantly and get started applying for jobs!

Get ahead of the competition

Make your job applications stand-out from other candidates.

Dream Jobs Around The World | Most Popular Dream Jobs

Should You Include Your Picture on Your Resume?

Creating a STAR Method Resume

• University of Pennsylvania
• School of Arts and Sciences
• Penn Calendar

Search form

Clinical Coursework

Psychopathology proseminar (psyc 6000).

This course covers fundamental topics in psychopathology, with an emphasis on presenting features and etiological factors, and with attention to strengths and limitations of the current nosological system (the DSM ). Theoretical models of psychopathological phenomena and major syndromes (e.g., emotional disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders) are discussed, with reference to relevant empirical findings. Implications for treatment are also considered.

Clinical Seminars (PSYC 7090)

These courses cover a wide array of specialized topics in the area of clinical psychology. Courses in other departments with highly relevant content, a rigorous syllabus, and a clear evaluation component can often be counted toward this requirement. Some recent courses include:

• Developmental Psychopathology
• Transdiagnostic Processes in Psychpathology
• Treatment of Anxiety and Depression
• Violence: Clinical Neuroscience Approaches
• Approaches to Psychotherapy
• Positive Psychology

Psychological Assessment (PSYC 8100)

This course provides a basic introduction to the theories and tools of psychological assessment. Students learn how to administer and interpret a number of cognitive, learning, neuropsychological, and personality tests including the WAIS, WMS, WIAT, MMPI-3, Delis-Kaplan Executive Function Tests, and so on. Attention is given to serving as a consultant, differential diagnosis, case conceptualization, and integrating test results into formal but accessible reports.

Psychodiagnostic Interviewing (PSYC 8110)

This course, usually taken simultaneously with PSYC 8100, provides a basic introduction to psychodiagnostic interviewing and differential diagnosis. Students learn to take clinical histories and to administer a number of standardized diagnostic interviews, including the mental status exam, DIAMOND, SCID II, ADIS, and various clinician rating scales such as the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Attention is also given to self-report symptom inventories such as the Beck Depression Inventory and the Autism Questionnaire, as well as to computerized diagnostic tools.

Empirically Supported Treatments (PSYC 7090)

This course, which is required for all clinical students, covers a wide range of approaches to the treatment of psychopathology that have a strong evidence base supporting their efficacy. Students will learn the criteria that must be applied to determine whether a treatment can be considered an EST, and will review various research methods and approaches that can be applied to that end.

Ethics and Professional Standards (PSYC 7090)

This course covers issues in professional ethics and the laws governing the practice of clinical psychology. Students learn to understand and apply the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, as well as the Pennsylvania Ethics Code for Psychologists. The course also covers relevant statutes, case law, regulations, rules, and policies governing health service psychology at the state and federal level. Woven into the course at every level is competent clinicial practice, especially multicultural competence and humility.  

HONOURS PSYCHOLOGY COURSEWORK

60 credit points.

Ohio State navigation bar

• BuckeyeLink
• Search Ohio State

Relevant Courses

Psychology courses related to diversity/inclusion offered at Ohio State:

• PSYCH 1100: Introduction to Psychology 
• PSYCH 2333: Psychology of Human Sexuality
• PSYCH 2367.01: Social Psychology
• PSYCH 3325: Introduction to Social Psychology
• PSYCH 3375: Stereotyping and Prejudice
• PSYCH 4518: Attitudes: Structure, Functions, and Consequences
• PSYCH 4543: Psychology of Gender
• PSYCH 4545: Cross-Cultural Psychology
• PSYCH 4555: Adolescent Sexuality
• PSYCH 4571: Psychology of Developmental Disabilities