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How much do cognitive psychology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive psychology in the United States is $54,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cognitive psychology?

Cognitive psychology is a branch of psychology that studies mental processes such as perception, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and language. It focuses on how people acquire, process, and store information. Cognitive psychologists use scientific methods to understand how the brain interprets and responds to various stimuli, helping to explain behaviors and thought patterns. This field has practical applications in areas like education, therapy, artificial intelligence, and decision-making research.

What are the qualifications to get a job in cognitive psychology?

The qualifications necessary to work in cognitive psychology ultimately depend on your employer and the job duties and responsibilities. A bachelor’s degree in psychology is typically the first step in becoming a cognitive psychologist. Some employers might want their employees to have at least a master’s degree, especially if you teach or conduct research. In some cases, people in this field can have a degree in another human behavioral science discipline. Other qualifications include state licensure, clinical experience, and strong research skills.

What are some typical challenges cognitive psychologists face when conducting research studies?

Cognitive psychologists often encounter challenges such as designing experiments that accurately isolate specific mental processes, recruiting a diverse pool of participants, and ensuring ethical standards are upheld throughout the study. Additionally, interpreting results can be complex due to individual differences in cognition and potential confounding variables. Collaborating with statisticians and other psychologists is common to address these issues and enhance the validity and reliability of findings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cognitive psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Psychologist, you need a strong background in psychological theory and research methods, typically supported by an advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in psychology. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS or R, experimental design software, and possibly neuroimaging systems is important. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting data and sharing research findings. These skills are vital for advancing scientific understanding of mental processes and applying insights to real-world problems.

What is the difference between Cognitive Psychology vs Neuropsychology?

AspectCognitive PsychologyNeuropsychology
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Psychology, specialized training in cognitionMaster's or Ph.D. in Psychology or Neuroscience, certification in neuropsychological assessment
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, clinical settingsHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers
Industry UsageResearch, academia, cognitive assessmentClinical diagnosis, brain injury assessment, rehabilitation

While both fields study brain functions and behavior, Cognitive Psychology focuses on understanding mental processes like memory and perception, often through experiments and research. Neuropsychology, on the other hand, emphasizes diagnosing and treating brain-related conditions, applying neurobiological knowledge to clinical practice.

Is cognitive psychology worth it?

Cognitive psychology is a valuable field for understanding mental processes such as perception, memory, and decision-making. Careers in this area often require strong analytical skills, research experience, and knowledge of experimental methods, with opportunities in academia, research institutions, and applied settings. The field offers intellectual fulfillment and potential for contribution to areas like education, healthcare, and technology.

What can a cognitive psychologist do?

A cognitive psychologist studies mental processes such as perception, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. They often conduct research, develop assessments, and apply their knowledge to improve learning, memory, and human-computer interaction. Their work may involve experiments, data analysis, and collaboration with other professionals in clinical, educational, or research settings.

What jobs can you get with cognitive psychology?

With a background in cognitive psychology, common jobs include research psychologist, user experience (UX) researcher, cognitive analyst, and human factors specialist. These roles often require skills in data analysis, experimental design, and understanding human behavior, and may involve working in academia, healthcare, technology, or government sectors.
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Cognitive Psychology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Psychology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,968 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$6.9K - $7.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

University Of San Diego rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

459th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology
Posting #: 5666
Position Status: Faculty, Full-time regular
Location: San Diego
Position Type: Faculty, College of Arts and Sciences
Position Title & Department:
Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology
Posting #
5666
Department Description:
The Department of Psychological Sciences is housed within the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of San Diego. Our faculty are dedicated teacher-scholars with a commitment to offering the highest quality teaching and learning environment for students as well as mentoring undergraduates in meaningful research experiences. We embrace our responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture and seek candidates who are motivated to contribute to the life of the department, College, and University. The department offers robust mentoring of new faculty to support their success. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, diversity and inclusion, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person.
University Description:
The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity's urgent challenges.
Detailed Description:
The Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of San Diego invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Cognitive Psychology to start in Fall 2027. Our faculty are dedicated teacher-scholars with a commitment to offering the highest quality teaching and learning environment for students as well as mentoring undergraduates in meaningful research experiences. We embrace our responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture and seek candidates who are motivated to contribute to the life of the department, College, and University. The department offers robust mentoring of new faculty to support their success. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with the opportunity for students to select an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health, Child/Human Development, Health and Wellness, or Social and Cultural Processes (please visit https://www.sandiego.edu/cas/psychological-sciences/ for more information).
Job Requirements:
The successful candidates will
  • Hold an advanced degree, preferably a doctorate (Ph.D.) in cognitive psychology or a related field. ABD candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Have demonstrated a commitment to teaching and research, mentoring undergraduates, and fostering a climate of inclusion and diversity.

The successful candidate will have expertise in cognitive psychology. The teaching load for faculty is three courses per semester and may include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, an advanced research methods capstone or seminar seminar in cognitive psychology, and upper-division courses in their area of expertise (e.g., attention, perception, decision-making, language, memory, misinformation, problem-solving, cognitive performance, technology). The successful candidate will have demonstrated potential for an independent research program with human subjects and involving undergraduate research students. We welcome candidates who are interested in teaching courses involving community engagement within diverse communities. Faculty participate in department and University service and will serve as academic advisor for undergraduate students. Candidates with postdoctoral research experience are especially encouraged to apply.
Background check: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.
Posting Salary:
$6,931.25-$7,917 monthly: Excellent Benefits
The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including; medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers. Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer. USD: Human Resources: Benefits
The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.
Special Application Instructions:
For full consideration, applications should be completed and submitted by September 15, 2026.
Applicants are asked to submit the following materials.
  1. Letter of application or cover letter (limit 1 page)
  2. Curriculum vitae
  3. Teaching Statement including evidence of inclusive pedagogy (limit 2 pages) and a sample syllabus
  4. Research Statement highlighting past research and articulating a plan for future research (limit 2 pages) and a sample of scholarly work
  5. Contact information for three references who will be sent a link to upload letters.

For questions, please contact the department chair, Dr. Jennifer Zwolinski (jzwolinski@sandiego.edu).
If you have any technical difficulties please contact the Employment Services Team at jobs@sandiego.edu.
Additional Details:
The University of San Diego is a smoking and tobacco-free campus. For more information, visit www.sandiego.edu/smokefree.
Advertised: July 31, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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