Psychology, BA
Explore the science behind why people think, feel and behave the way they do. You¿ll develop research and critical-thinking skills through empirical methods and faculty-led research experiences, preparing you for further study and careers related to psychology, human behavior and well-being.
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.
Psychology degree description
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior.
The Bachelor of Arts program in psychology emphasizes critical thinking, empirical research methods and writing, and adds practical experience through internships, service learning and faculty-supervised research. The program provides you with a broad foundation in psychology, and you have the flexibility to choose from a variety of courses outside the major.
You have the opportunity to work in faculty-led research labs in a wide variety of areas, including:
- PLENA Research Lab
- Couples Coping with Stress Lab https://ashleykrandall.wixsite.com/asucouplescoping
- Race and Relationships Lab, also known as the R&R Lab https://www.raceandrelationshipslab.com/
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| CED 250 Career Development |
| PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology |
| PSY 230 Introduction to Statistics |
| PSY 290 Research Methods |
| CAP 120 Introduction to Counseling |
| CAP 220 Self in a Multicultural Society |
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.
- Develop a broad understanding of psychological principles to explain mental processes and behavior.
- Apply psychological theories and evidence-based interventions to address psychological disorders in mock counseling skill sessions and a final report.
- Develop a culturally competent approach to address a ethical dilemma in a course project.
Develop a broad understanding of psychological principles to explain mental processes and behavior. 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.
Study abroad students are exposed to distinct differences in the human condition worldwide, are able to improve language and cross-cultural skills for effective communication, and are challenged to adapt under new social and cultural circumstances. Participating in one of the more than 300 Global Education programs provides an opportunity for students to develop a valuable skill set that can give them an advantage in their career and provide personal enrichment. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, Global Education programs encourage students to build communication skills, challenge them to adapt and persevere, expose them to differences across the world, and increase their ability to work with diverse groups of people.
The College of Integrative Sciences and Arts recommends these programs for students majoring in psychology.
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 receive 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 |
| Behavioral Health Specialist | 2.3% | $71,900 | Learn more |
| Counselor (General) | 5.9% | $50,860 | Learn more |
| Licensed Clinical Psychologist | 11.7% | $100,580 | Learn more |
| Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) | 13.5% | $66,940 | Learn more |
| Mental Health Counselor | 18.4% | $59,350 | Learn more |
| Probation Officer | 3.0% | $66,270 | Learn more |
| School Psychologist | 0.8% | $95,990 | Learn more |
| Social Worker | 4.4% | $59,550 | Learn more |
| Substance Abuse Social Worker | 10.3% | $60,280 | 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 psychology degree prepares you for
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than average.
Graduates with a degree in psychology are prepared for a career in a variety of settings:
- consulting firms
- government (sales and marketing, human resources, research, administration, management)
- hospitals
- industries and organizations
- mental health agencies
- social services (high school psychology teacher, occupational analyst)
The degree is also an excellent foundation for graduate study in fields such as public administration, law, family studies, and communication, and the various graduate program fields in psychology:
- clinical and counseling
- cognitive neuroscience
- developmental
- environmental
- health
- physiological
- social
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.
