Introduction to the Psychology Major
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology degree is designed to prepare students for further study at the graduate level or for employment in a wide variety of settings. It is the objective of the program to provide students with a well-rounded education in the basic principles and methodology of psychology. Emphasis in all programs is placed on the traditional perspectives, knowledge of research design, understanding the etiology of psychopathology, human development, appreciating the mind-body connection, problem resolution, as well as the critical reviewing of literature and writing in APA format and using library and information resources.
The American Women’s College offers six different majors within the BA in Psychology degree, as well as an 18-credit certificate in Human Services and Rehabilitation:
Child Psychology
Counseling Foundations
Forensic Psychology
Foundations of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
Human Services and Rehabilitation
Psychology (General)
This section is designed to provide you with an introduction to the BA in Psychology program, highlighting the various course requirements for the core curriculum, psychology major core, major specific courses, and general electives for each major. The visual below depicts the requirements of the BA in Psychology degree. The following sections will provide a more detailed description of each requirement.
Resources: Making the Most of Your Undergraduate Psychology Degree
This chapter, available through the Hatch Library, explores the general purpose of the psychology major, as well as outlines the five program level goals identified by the American Psychological Association.
- Article: 8 Career Goals For College Students
This article provides some helpful tips as you begin to consider your own academic and professional goals.
This article, published by Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, describes the value of an undergraduate degree in psychology, and explains several “threats” or misconceptions about the discipline.
This article provides a brief overview of various psychology degrees and the different career opportunities available to those who study psychology.
This podcast produced by Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, features Dr. Jane Halonen exploring how to make the most of your academic opportunities.
- Listen: Why Major in Psychology?
This podcast produced by Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, features Dr. Stacie Spencer sharing three great reasons why you should major in psychology.
Watch this webinar hosted by Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, featuring a very helpful discussion on how to make the most out of your psychology major.