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What is the Best Degree for Mental Health Professionals?

Written by NU Editorial Contributors
Academically reviewed by Melanie Shaw
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Pursuing a career in the diverse field of mental health offers both profound challenges and deeply rewarding experiences. While the educational and certification requirements are extensive, mental health practitioners provide critical services to those in need and value the direct impact they can make on people’s lives. If you are considering this career trajectory, you may be wondering: What is the best degree for mental health professionals to possess?

Fortunately, there is no single correct answer here. Instead, it’s all about finding the best fit for your interests and career goals within the mental health field. Whether you’re passionate about providing therapy, research, clinical treatment, or another type of mental health service, there’s a degree and an educational path that will help you gain the skills you need. Typically, degrees in psychology, social work, counseling, and psychiatry are the ones to pursue.

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So how do you choose? Below, let’s explore the specifics of the different mental health degrees available, covering what you’ll study, professional licensure and certification requirements, and career options.

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How to Choose the Right Degree

When deciding which mental health degree to pursue, start by reflecting on your interests and long-term career goals. Are you drawn to providing direct therapy, conducting research, or prescribing medication? If you’re just beginning your educational path, a bachelor’s degree in psychology or sociology can provide a strong foundation. Bachelor’s programs introduce you to the basics of human behavior, mental health theories, and some introductory therapy techniques. From there, you can decide whether to enter the workforce or continue with advanced studies.

Should you move on to more specialized studies or seek an advanced degree, consider what type of work excites you most and what population(s) you may be drawn to working with. If you want to help individuals and families through counseling, a master’s degree in social work or counseling psychology could be a great fit. On the other hand, if you’re passionate about working with the neurodiverse community, you may want to earn your master’s in behavior analysis or developmental studies. 

Master’s programs focus on developing strong, applicable skills that prepare you for licensure and a specific career. Meanwhile, if research or academia appeals to you, a doctoral-level degree (PhD, PsyD, etc.) provides further clinical education, psychological and theoretical research opportunities, and practical application through teaching experience and supervision training.

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Types of Mental Health Degrees

If you’re starting a career in mental health, consider some of the bachelor’s degrees that provide a strong foundation for your studies. Each of the following undergraduate programs at National University teaches unique perspectives and skills that can translate to impactful roles within the mental health field:

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree, you’ll gain a broad understanding of human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional functioning. A psychology degree is useful and versatile, providing a solid basis for advanced studies or an easy bridge to entry-level positions in human services, research, or business. This program is within the School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences.

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

In a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program, you’ll study the structure and dynamics of human society, including social institutions and issues like inequality and race. This degree prepares you for careers in social services, community work, and policy analysis. This program is within the School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences.

Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology

A Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology combines traditional psychology with a holistic approach to mental health. You’ll explore cognitive processes and alternative therapies, preparing you for a career in mental health and wellness coaching. This program is within the School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences.

Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies

A Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies allows you to combine multiple fields of study based on your interests. This flexible degree develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing you for diverse career paths within the mental health field and serves as a springboard for further education. This program is within the School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences.

Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology

With a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology, you’ll focus on the psychological aspects of athletic performance, including motivation and team dynamics. This degree prepares you for careers in coaching, sports counseling, and athletic training. This program is within the JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences.

Undergraduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling (California)

The Undergraduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling (California) provides essential skills and knowledge for those interested in working with clients struggling with substance abuse. This California-only program prepares you to work with diverse clients facing substance abuse issues. You’ll learn to assess and diagnose using DSM IV-TR criteria, develop and evaluate treatment plans, provide client education, and collaborate with other professionals. The program also emphasizes ethical practice and effective case management. This program is within the JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences.

Pursuing a master’s, doctoral degree, or certificate can significantly advance your career in mental health. For many specialized roles, such as clinical psychologist or licensed counselor, obtaining an advanced degree is a necessary requirement. The following advanced degrees are just a small sampling of those available at National University that provide deeper expertise in the mental health field, helping you unlock even more professional opportunities:

Minor in Sociology Program Page
Master’s Degrees:
Doctoral Degrees:
Certificates:
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Things to Consider When Choosing a Degree

When choosing which degree to pursue in the mental health field, start by identifying your career goals or a specialty you feel interested in. Mental health encompasses a wide range of roles, including clinical psychologists, social workers, career counselors, psychiatrists, substance abuse counselors, human resources specialists, and more. With each career requiring a different set of qualifications, licensing, and experience, it’s important to realize your interests early on so you can follow relevant academic and vocational opportunities. Understanding, for example, whether you prefer a clinical path involving direct patient care, or a non-clinical path focusing on research, education, or policymaking, will guide your educational choices as well as any internships or work placements you seek. Exploring the differences between clinical and non-clinical psychology PhD programs can help clarify which direction aligns with your career goals.

Of course, educational and licensing requirements for your dream career are key factors to consider. Clinical roles, such as licensed psychologists or counselors, typically require advanced degrees (master’s or doctoral) and rigorous licensing exams. These programs also often include supervised clinical experience in order to develop your practical skills. In contrast, non-clinical roles might require different advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. in psychology or a Master’s in Social Work, with more emphasis on research and policy work. In addition, each state has its own particular licensing requirements, which may include additional exams, supervised practice hours, and professional development.

An important aspect of a mental health career is the commitment to continuing education, which keeps practitioners informed about the latest research, methods, and ethical practices. Many states mandate ongoing professional development to maintain licensure, often involving workshops, seminars, or additional coursework. Sustaining a successful and compliant career in mental health means keeping informed about your state’s continuing education requirements and fulfilling them.

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Licensing and Certification Requirements

As you begin a career in mental health, it’s important to understand the licensing and certification requirements for your chosen specialty, particularly as you look forward to your educational path. Consider some of the roles that require licensure or certification beyond a bachelor’s degree:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, completion of supervised clinical hours, and passing a national certification exam (such as the National Counselor Examination).

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Requires a master’s degree in social work (MSW), completion of supervised clinical hours, and passing a state-specific licensing exam.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Requires a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, supervised clinical experience, and passing a state licensing exam.

Licensed Psychologist

Requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, completion of an internship and postdoctoral supervised experience, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Psychiatrist

Requires a medical degree (MD or DO), completion of a residency in psychiatry, and passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).

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Career Paths

Earning a degree in a mental health field opens the door to a diverse range of career options. Let’s look at some of the job prospects and professions that might follow your educational journey, as well as their estimated growth and earning potential (as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics):

Psychology

Psychologists study mental processes and behavior, providing therapy and assessments to help individuals manage and overcome psychological issues. They may specialize in areas like clinical psychology, counseling, or research. Psychologists also work in a wide variety of industries, including in healthcare settings, government agencies, schools, and as private practicians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates growth of about 6% in the field between 2022 and 2032. Psychologists earn a median annual wage of $92,740 as of May 2023.  

Social Work

Social workers support individuals, families, and communities by providing counseling, advocacy, and resources to help them cope with challenges and improve their well-being. Most top sectors employ social workers, including government agencies, educational institutions, and community service organizations. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 7% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $58,380 as of May 2023.

Sociology

Sociologists study social behavior, institutions, and structures, analyzing how they influence individuals and groups. Their research helps to understand social dynamics and address societal issues. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 5% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $101,770 as of May 2023.

Marriage and Family Therapy

Marriage and family therapists specialize in helping couples and families navigate relationship issues, providing therapy and strategies to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen bonds. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 15% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $58,510 as of May 2023.

Behavioral Counseling

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors work with individuals facing addiction, behavioral issues, and mental health disorders, offering support and strategies for recovery and coping. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 18% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $53,710 as of May 2023.

School and Career Counseling

School and career counselors and advisors provide guidance to students in academic, career, and personal development, helping them to set goals, choose educational and career paths, and navigate educational challenges. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 5% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $61,710 as of May 2023.

Social and Community Services

Social and community service managers oversee programs and organizations that support public well-being, managing resources, and staff to deliver services effectively. BLS estimates that the role will experience a growth rate of about 9% between 2022 and 2032 and reports a median annual wage of $77,030 as of May 2023.

Professional Associations for Mental Health Professionals

Joining a professional association can be a valuable step toward advancing your career and building a community within your field. Associations provide access to useful resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education, helping you stay current with industry standards and connect with fellow professionals. Some of the most reputable and popular associations for mental health professionals include: 

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Can You Earn a Mental Health Degree Online?

Yes, you can absolutely earn a mental health degree online! National University offers flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs in psychology, counseling, social work, and related fields, allowing you to study at your own pace and earn your degree from the comfort of your home. This flexibility is ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments. Explore our full range of online mental health degrees to find the perfect program for your career goals. 

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Choosing Your Path in Mental Health

A career in mental health can be both fulfilling and challenging, allowing you to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives. With diverse professional opportunities available to those with a mental health degree, it’s easy to see why working in this growing industry is a practical and rewarding choice. Whether you’re passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges or interested in understanding the complexities of human behavior, a degree in mental health can set you on the path to a worthwhile career. Explore National University’s Social Sciences and Psychology degree programs today and take the first step toward a brighter future in this impactful field.

This content has been reviewed and approved by the National University Editorial Advisory Board. Learn more about our editorial process.

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