Deepen Your Understanding of Human Behavior and Prepare to Help Others with the Psychology Major

APU’s Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology equip students to understand human behavior, providing a solid foundation in the science of psychology. Students take courses that apply psychology to meeting human needs, and enjoy opportunities to engage in field experience and/or research. Psychology majors learn how to scientifically analyze human behavior and interactions in a variety of real-world contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program facilitates broad training in the study of human behavior that enables students to evaluate and solve problems in the workplace, home, and community, and the program is ideal for men and women interested in studying human behavior and cognition. Students graduate prepared for careers in social services, human resources, administration, and public relations, and for graduate study in applied aspects of psychology, such as counseling or clinical psychology, school psychology, education, social work, law, and management. The curriculum emphasizes the system aspects of human behavior, as well as fieldwork, and gives students the flexibility to design more specific training in a variety of psychological disciplines.

The Bachelor of Science in Psychology program is designed for students seeking to prepare for career trajectories requiring a strong foundational knowledge of the human brain and neuropsychological functioning and a strong skill set in psychological research. Program graduates are well-equipped to pursue graduate education and careers in psychology, allied health fields (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy), neuroscience, and a variety of research-related careers.

Throughout both programs, students explore the intersection of Christian faith and psychology and a Christian’s role in the psychological sciences. For students who wish to pursue a graduate or doctoral degree, this program teaches the skills and discipline needed to do so. Psychology majors leave APU prepared to explore and influence human behavior.

Why Study Psychology?

Increasingly sophisticated marketing techniques will ensure continued need for psychology expertise in business settings, and an increasingly interconnected, politically and ideologically divided world will call for psychologists in political, military, and investigative roles. Additionally, the aging of the Baby Boomers and the growing demand for psychologists in mental health care, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals will guarantee positions for successful psychology graduates. The APU psychology majors are uniquely positioned to take advantage of these trends, and as a result can anticipate ready job availability.

Gain In-depth Learning Experiences

More than 60 percent of psychology students are involved in practicums, participating in internship opportunities in a variety of areas related to their emphasis. Students secure practicums at many locations throughout Southern California such as City of Hope, Pregnancy Help Clinic Hollywood, California Christian Home, Charter Oak Hospital, and local school districts. Internships ensure that psychology majors graduate with contacts in their chosen field, solid evidence of their skills, and substantial experience on their résumés.

Are Either of These Majors Right for You?

You should consider being a psychology major if any of the following are true:

• You are interested in the human mind and motivations.
• You are empathetic and a good listener.
• You want to help others.
• You wish to conduct research about a specific topic.
• You have strong communication skills.

Azusa Pacific also offers a bachelor’s completion program in psychology at the High Desert, Inland Empire, Murrieta, and San Diego regional campuses. This program is designed for transfer students who have at least 15 units.