A flight crew member is evaluated, counseled, and treated by an aviation psychologist. A bachelor’s degree in psychology is usually required to work as an aviation psychologist, though many employers prefer candidates with master’s degrees and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) credentials. You’ll also need to research the aviation industry and the types of stress that employees in this field face. Additionally, some employers may give preference to people who have their own licenses to practice psychology.
To work as an aviation psychologist, you’ll typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology. A four-year program in this field usually entails taking a variety of psychology-related courses as well as basic education courses like science, history, and math. Principles of psychology, development in psychology, experimental psychology, and social psychology are some of the psychology classes you’ll take. You can also enroll in classes like personality theories, statistics, and community and abnormal psychology.
While bachelor’s degrees are typically required to work as an aviation psychologist, many employers prefer candidates with graduate-level credentials. A master’s degree in psychology, for example, may increase your chances of landing a job as an aviation psychologist. These programs typically last a year or two and give students the opportunity to study a variety of advanced psychology topics. In fact, you could focus your graduate studies in psychology on a specific area.
If you want to work as an aviation psychologist, you should consider getting a PhD. While a PhD isn’t required for all jobs in this field, many employers will look at you more favorably if you have one. You can study cognitive psychology, industrial psychology, or social psychology if you want to work as an aviation psychologist. Other psychology PhD programs may also be appropriate.
When you want to work as an aviation psychologist, most employers will expect you to have some knowledge of the industry. Many employers will expect you to be aware of the pressures that come with working in this field, as well as the unique demands that come with working in aviation. You’ll also need to know how to evaluate aviation workers and, in some cases, develop your own methods. In most cases, good communication and interpersonal skills are also required.
If your jurisdiction requires licensing, you may need to obtain it before you can work as an aviation psychologist. This usually entails fulfilling educational requirements and passing an exam. You may also be subjected to drug and background checks.