Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology degree program introduces learners to the fields of psychology and the behavioral sciences. This program provides a foundation for the application of psychology principles to bachelor-level careers in industry, government, and relevant nonprofit agencies. The BA in Psychology program also provides the basic knowledge and skills that serve learners in entry-level, non-clinical staff positions in mental health care and social service settings, and for those who desire to seek further graduate-level education in psychology and related fields following completion of the BA degree.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Foundational Knowledge in Psychology
Describe key psychological concepts, principles, and theories in relation to personal and/or professional issues.
- Scientific Literacy & Research
Utilize scientific reasoning, processes, and/or methods to examine psychological phenomena.
- Ethics & Professional Standards
Apply ethical behavior and standards in accordance with the ethical standards of the discipline.
- Cultural Diversity, Awareness & Humility
Articulate the role of diverse cultures, equity, and social beliefs on evolving perspectives in psychology.
- Psychological & Professional Literacy
Analyze psychological information from research and media as it applies to personal, professional, or community life.
- Professional Values & Development
Apply knowledge, skills, and feedback to foster personal growth and/or potential for success in chosen profession.
Degree Requirements
| DEGREE REQUIREMENTS |
CREDITS |
| General Education Courses |
36 |
| Core Courses |
30 |
| Psychology Elective Courses |
21 |
| General Elective Courses |
33 |
| TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED FOR COMPLETION |
120 |
Required Courses
Core Courses (30 Credits Required)
Psychology Elective Courses (21 Credits Required)
| PSY 3101 | Introduction to Human Sexual Behavior | 3 |
| PSY 3102 | Introduction to Theories & Techniques Of Group Counseling | 3 |
| PSY 3103 | Introduction to Forensic Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 3106 | Psychology of Communication | 3 |
| PSY 3107 | Intercultural Psychology | 3 |
| PSY 3306 | Foundations of Addiction | 3 |
| PSY 3307 | The Physiology and Pharmacology of Substance Use | 3 |
| PSY 3309 | Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling | 3 |
| PSY 3316 | Personal and Professional Growth in the Field of Addiction | 3 |
| PSY 3317 | Individual, Family and Group Counseling | 3 |
| PSY 3318 | Culture and Diversity in Addiction Counseling | 3 |
| PSY 3404 | Crisis Intervention | 3 |
| PSY 3405 | Introduction to Behavior Modification | 3 |
| PSY 3408 | Current Issues in Psychology and Health | 3 |
| PSY 3409 | Marriage and Family | 3 |
| PSY 3410 | Psychology of Adjustment | 3 |
| PSY 3411 | Psychology in Business | 3 |
| PSY 3412 | Psychology of Caregiving and Chronic Illness | 3 |
| PSY 3507 | Case Management: Assessment, Treatment Planning, Relapse Prevention and Aftercare | 3 |
General Elective Courses (33 Credits Required)
The general elective courses for the BA in Psychology degree can be taken from 2000-level courses as long as all prerequisites have been met. Learners can enhance their education in psychology by selecting electives from the psychology elective course listing, or they can take a variety of courses from other schools within the University for a broader educational experience.
General Education Courses (36 Credits Required)
The bachelor’s degree requires satisfaction of 36 General Education (GE) credits. This requirement can be met entirely or in part by transfer from other institutions. If the applicant does not have the entire 36 GE credits to transfer, then the University will recommend GE courses to be taken to add breadth and to satisfy the 36 GE credits required. The General Education courses available for the bachelor’s degree are grouped into five sub-disciplines: English, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences.
This program is not designed to meet the educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification required for employment in an occupation. As such, CalSouthern has made no determination regarding prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.
While California Southern University, as a member of the AIU System, is part of a Title IV eligible institution offering Title IV eligible programs, CalSouthern has elected and designated this program as not participating in Title IV federal financial aid programs. This means students enrolling in this program may not use Federal Student Aid to help pay for this program. Instead, it offers a variety of zero interest payment options for students.