Counseling and Applied Psychological Science, BS
Learn foundational theories, research methods and basic counseling skills to help people from diverse backgrounds cope with life's challenges. Dig into what shapes how people think, feel and act, and grow a deeper understanding of the mind through the lens of applied psychology.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
or MAT 170 Precalculus
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
International students (F1), this program is not eligible for the STEM-OPT extension.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
Counseling and Applied Psychological Science degree description
Counseling and applied psychological science is a specialty in promoting psychological well-being. Counselors and applied psychologists provide the tools and resources necessary for individuals, families and organizations to cope with everyday problems.
You receive foundational training in counseling theories, addictions, trauma, lifespan development, group counseling and professional ethics in the Bachelor of Science program in counseling and applied psychological science. A distinct aspect of the program is its attention to cultural diversity, focusing on age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion and socioeconomic status. As part of the program, you participate in an internship in which you shadow a licensed therapist and apply counseling theory.
Why study counseling and applied psychological science at ASU?
You join a program that's the first of its kind at a major research university, learning from faculty who are primarily licensed psychologists and mental health professionals bringing rich clinical experience from the field.
On campus, you can get involved with the Counseling and Applied Psychological Student Organizations, a community that connects routinely with graduate students, clinicians working in the field and faculty.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| CAP 120 Introduction to Counseling |
| CAP 220 Self in a Multicultural Society |
| CAP 240 Counseling Skills |
| CAP 290 Research Methods in Counseling and Psychology |
| CAP 310 Addictions I: Foundations and Basic Principles |
| CAP 320 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Distinguish counseling skills used in service delivery through mock sessions and field work.
- Evaluate ethical judgment within a multicultural framework when working with patients/clients.
- Apply statistical tools to test hypotheses and draw valid conclusions.
Distinguish counseling skills used in service delivery through mock sessions and field work.Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
To make a positive impact in the lives of others, students must understand the diverse sets of experiences, backgrounds and cultures that shape the people with whom they wish to work. When studying abroad, students gain firsthand experience of a wide variety of cultures and communities. Global Education programs provide students with a distinct global perspective, enabling them to have an impact.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addictions Counselor | 18.4% | $59,350 | Learn more |
| Counselor (General) | 5.9% | $50,860 | Learn more |
| Guidance Counselor | 2.9% | $64,330 | Learn more |
| Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) | 13.5% | $66,940 | Learn more |
| Mental Health Counselor | 18.4% | $59,350 | Learn more |
| Psychology Professor | 4.0% | $80,340 | Learn more |
| Rehabilitation Counselor | 2.2% | $46,850 | Learn more |
| School Psychologist | 0.8% | $95,990 | Learn more |
| Social Services Director | 7.2% | $80,390 | Learn more |
| Social Worker | 4.4% | $59,550 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Careers this counseling and applied psychological science degree prepares you for
Graduates with a degree in counseling and applied psychological sciences are prepared for careers in various settings:
- community centers
- government (sales and marketing, human resources management)
- mental health professions (youth counselor, substance abuse counselor, behavioral health technician)
- schools and colleges (school psychologist, educator, professor)
- social services (high school psychology teacher, occupational analyst)
- substance abuse treatment clinics
Graduates may qualify for employment in behavioral health care delivery settings such as community agencies, hospitals and rehabilitation centers to support counselors and other mental health professionals. They are prepared for a variety of positions, such as vocational rehabilitation assistant, human service worker and life skills instructor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a projected job growth of 17% (2024 to 2034) --- much faster than average --- for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors.
Graduates are not license eligible as professional counselors but are well prepared with an excellent foundation to enter graduate degree programs in disciplines such as counselor education, counseling psychology, clinical psychology, social work, family studies and related fields.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Counseling and Counseling Psychology
|
SANCA 233
CISA@asu.edu
480-727-1526
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
