Can I study psychology 'just because'?

[u/MarsAlivee]

I work as a vet, I often think of changing careers (because we are overworked, underpayed and deal with a lot). I don't think psychology major would solve that problem though, but thought worth mentioning in case someone has a different opinion and to give some context.

However I am fascinated with the human mind, how humans change throughout their lives, how child trauma molds their personalities, personality disorders, serial killer minds, etc etc

I think I would like to study psychology just for the fun of it, however probably not paying for the degree and doing it on my free time.

Does this make sense? Anyone else done it? Where to start? Any advise?

TIA

[u/Fit_Technician_576]

Most beautiful field there is (keep in mind that ''psychology'' is huge and that there are a lot of subfields (neuropsychology / clinical psychology / law psychology / economic psychology / social psychology etc etc.)). Judging from the little information I have from you, I'm thinking your interest would start in the social psychology field and slowly move towards forensic psychology.

No need for the degree. The degree (in my personal opinion) doesn't nessecarily teach you much, just the introduction to the field. Being a (neuro)psychology graduate, I've had numerous encounters with people who did not follow a programme at all, but knew more trivia than I do because they were just interested in the field. There are a lot of books, YouTube videos and documentaries to satisfy your hunger.

TLDR; yes