Psychology, B.A.

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (B.A. in Psychology)

The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (B.A. in Psychology) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and the factors that influence them. It focuses on key areas of psychology, including cognition, emotion, personality, social behavior, and mental health. Through coursework, research projects, and practical experiences, students develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills, which are essential for pursuing careers in mental health, social services, research, or further education in graduate psychology programs.

Key Program Features:

• Foundational Knowledge – The program offers a broad understanding of core psychological theories, principles, and methodologies.
• Research Experience – Students engage in research projects and gain hands-on experience in designing studies, collecting data, and analyzing results.
• Clinical and Counseling Focus – Courses may include topics such as abnormal psychology, therapeutic techniques, and the role of psychology in mental health and well-being.
• Psychological Assessment – Training in the use of various psychological tests and assessments, which is essential for understanding mental health and diagnosing disorders.
• Ethics and Professionalism – Emphasis on the ethical principles and professional standards in psychology practice and research.
• Specializations – Opportunities to explore specialized areas of psychology, such as developmental psychology, social psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and neuropsychology.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Cognitive Psychology – The study of mental processes such as perception, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving.
2. Developmental Psychology – Understanding human development across the lifespan, from infancy to old age, and how individuals change and grow psychologically.
3. Abnormal Psychology – Examination of mental health disorders, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
4. Social Psychology – The study of how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by social factors, including group dynamics and interpersonal relationships.
5. Biological Psychology – Exploration of the biological foundations of behavior, including the brain's role in cognition, emotions, and behavior.
6. Psychological Research Methods – Study of research design, data collection, and statistical analysis to conduct experiments and interpret findings.
7. Therapeutic Techniques – Introduction to various approaches used in the treatment of mental health issues, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychoanalysis.
8. Ethics in Psychology – Study of the ethical considerations and guidelines for conducting research and practicing in the field of psychology.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the B.A. in Psychology program can pursue a wide range of careers in psychology and related fields, including:

• Mental Health Counselor – Providing therapy and counseling services in clinics, hospitals, or private practices.
• Human Resources Specialist – Applying psychological principles to employee recruitment, training, and management in organizations.
• Social Worker – Helping individuals and families navigate challenges related to mental health, addiction, or social issues.
• Research Assistant – Working in academic or healthcare settings, conducting psychological research and experiments.
• Market Research Analyst – Using psychological principles to understand consumer behavior and conduct surveys or focus groups for businesses.
• School Counselor – Working in educational settings to support students' academic and emotional well-being.
• Healthcare Worker – Engaging in roles such as rehabilitation or mental health support in medical environments.
• Public Health Specialist – Developing programs to promote mental health and well-being in communities.