There are some careers within the field that can offer competitive salaries. Here are some of the highest paying psychology jobs and a brief description of each:

Psychiatrist:

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They diagnose and treat mental illnesses, prescribe medication, and provide therapy. They may work in hospitals, private practice, or other healthcare settings. To become a psychiatrist, one must first obtain a bachelor's degree, followed by a medical degree, and then complete a residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists must also be licensed to practice medicine in their state. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for psychiatrists is $220,380 as of May 2020.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist:

Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychology principles to workplace environments to improve employee performance, job satisfaction, and organizational effectiveness. They may conduct research, develop training programs, and provide consultation to businesses. Some common job duties may include studying workplace productivity, analyzing job requirements, and evaluating employee training programs. To become an industrial-organizational psychologist, one typically needs a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, as well as certification or licensure in some states. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $98,530 as of May 2020.

Neuropsychologist:

Neuropsychologists study the relationship between the brain and behavior, often working with patients who have suffered from brain injuries or neurological disorders. They may conduct assessments, provide therapy, and develop treatment plans. Some common job duties may include evaluating patients' cognitive and emotional functioning, developing rehabilitation plans, and conducting research on brain function. To become a neuropsychologist, one typically needs a doctoral degree in neuropsychology or clinical psychology, as well as specialized training in neuropsychology. The BLS reports a median annual salary for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists, including neuropsychologists, was $79,820 as of May 2020.

Engineering Psychologist:

Engineering psychologists use their knowledge of human behavior to improve the design and function of products, systems, and technologies. They may work in research, product development, or consulting. Some common job duties may include designing products that are easy to use, conducting usability testing, and analyzing human performance in complex systems. To become an engineering psychologist, one typically needs a doctoral degree in psychology, with a focus on human factors or engineering psychology. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $98,530 as of May 2020.

Clinical Psychologist:

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. They work with individuals, families, and groups to develop treatment plans and provide therapy. They may work in hospitals, private practice, or other healthcare settings. Some common job duties may include administering psychological assessments, providing therapy, and developing treatment plans. To become a clinical psychologist, one typically needs a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, as well as a state license to practice. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $81,320 as of May 2020.

There are some jobs within the field that can be quite lucrative, such as psychiatry, industrial-organizational psychology, neuropsychology, engineering psychology, and clinical psychology. These careers often require advanced education and training, as well as licensure and certification in some cases.